By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

Eight out of the nine Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members representing Osun State in the House of Representatives have publicly reaffirmed their unwavering loyalty to the party and the state governor, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke.

The strong declaration came in response to claims made by Busayo Oluwole Oke, who recently dumped the PDP, alleging that other members of the caucus were poised to follow his lead.

In a jointly signed statement, the eight lawmakers dismissed Oke’s defection as unsurprising, saying his exit had long been anticipated given his persistent acts of disloyalty, public criticism, and sustained media attacks on the PDP and the administration of Governor Adeleke.

They described Oke’s resignation from the party that gave him a political lifeline for over two decades as “a sheer act of ingratitude,” warning him to desist from spreading falsehood and peddling malicious narratives in a desperate bid to win over his new political associates.

“The defection of our colleague, Wole Oke, is a personal decision that holds no bearing on the stability or cohesion of the PDP in Osun. The remaining eight members of the caucus remain fully committed to the ideals and leadership of the party,” the lawmakers declared.

They hailed Governor Adeleke’s performance in office, describing his leadership as forthright, competent and fair, adding that his administration has ensured an even distribution of democratic dividends across the state.

“The achievements of Governor Adeleke are visible across all sectors — education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare. His governance style continues to inspire confidence within the party and among the people of Osun,” the statement noted.

Reaffirming the governor’s position as the indisputable leader of the PDP in the state, the lawmakers lauded his inclusive governance approach, which they said has continued to foster unity and strength within the party.

They pledged continued support for Adeleke’s administration, both at the state and federal levels, asserting that Oke’s exit would not derail the party or its progress in the state.

“Our mandate remains intact, and we are not deterred in our commitment to legislative duties and party responsibilities. We urge our constituents and party loyalists to remain resolute and not be distracted by political noise,” the lawmakers emphasised.

They concluded by asserting that the PDP remains the most credible and development-driven platform in Osun, vowing to protect its legacy and continue delivering dividends of democracy to the people.

The signatories to the statement include Bamidele Salam, Ajilesoro Abimbola Taofeek, Mudashiru Lukman Alani, Akanni Clement Ademola, Omirin Emmanuel Olusanya, Adewale Moruf Adebayo, Adetunji Abidemi Olusoji, and Oladebo Lanre Omoleye.