Osun APC Defends Wole Oke’s Defection, Accuses Adeleke Family of Political Monopoly

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has defended the defection of Hon. Wole Oke from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing the move as both morally justified and politically necessary. 

The APC welcomed Oke, a seasoned legislator, stating that his entrance signals a shift toward merit-based leadership in the state.

In an official statement, the Osun APC criticized the PDP’s internal structure, accusing the party of being controlled by the Adeleke family, whom they allege has monopolized political power in the state for decades.

“The PDP in Osun has become less of a political party and more of a family enterprise,” the statement read. “It’s a structure where power rotates within a single household, leaving little space for other competent and credible leaders.”

The APC outlined the political legacy of the Adeleke family to support its claims. “Senator Raji Ayoola Adeleke, father of the current Governor Ademola Adeleke, was a senator during the Second Republic, representing a district comprising six local governments in Osun. His son, the late Senator Isiaka Adeleke, was Osun’s first civilian governor in 1992, and held various positions across party lines, including a stint as senator under both the PDP and APC.

Following his death, the statement continued, the political ambition remained within the family. Governor Ademola Adeleke first won a senatorial seat, then ran for governor in 2018 and again in 2022, eventually clinching the position.”

The APC argued that, in contrast to inherited political influence, Hon. Wole Oke’s career was built on grassroots engagement, legislative excellence, and public service. “Labeling Oke a ‘greedy politician’ is both unfair and hypocritical. He is simply walking away from a party that has stopped representing inclusiveness and democracy.”

The statement emphasized that the APC remains a platform for all progressives who believe in open competition, competence, and leadership built on merit rather than lineage.

“Osun deserves more than a political dynasty. With Hon. Wole Oke joining our ranks, we reaffirm our commitment to genuine leadership and a brighter, more inclusive future for our state,” the statement concluded.