Agboola “Halleluyah”’s Defection Won’t Affect PDP’s Strength in Oyo North, Party Leaders Say

Party leaders in Oyo North Senatorial District have played down the significance of the recent defection of former Senator Hosea Ayoola “Halleluyah” Agboola, insisting that the core strength and grassroots structure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the region remain intact and resilient.

In a recent meeting of PDP stakeholders from all three local government areas in Oyo North, senior party members emphasised that Agboola’s departure was an individual decision, not reflective of broader discontent within the party. The meeting, which included former local government chairmen, ward executives, youth leaders and women group coordinators, was convened to reassure members and citizens that the PDP’s machinery remains stable.

One senior local government leader stated, “Our strength is built on years of grassroots engagement, community service and loyalty—not on one person. We will continue to move forward.” Another added that the party is actively reinforcing its structures at the ward level, holding new registrations, updating membership rolls and promoting engagements that deepen bonds between the party and its supporters.

Leaders highlighted that Oyo North has consistently delivered electorally for the PDP, citing recent state and national-level successes. They credited this to strong local presence, effective coordination, and the responsiveness of party officials to constituents’ needs. They believe these factors will outweigh any disruption from high-profile defections.

The group also acknowledged that defections occur in politics and that parties must maintain organisational discipline, internal democracy and goodwill with members. They pledged to hold bi-monthly reviews of ward-level structures, expand training for party agents, and ensure that campaign readiness for the upcoming 2027 election is maintained.

In remarks tailored for current leadership, party officials reaffirmed their commitment to the manifesto of the PDP: inclusiveness, social welfare, education and infrastructural development. They said they would redouble community outreach, strengthen women’s involvement and mobilise youth engagement, thereby keeping their electoral base responsive and active.

As for Agboola’s defection, the PDP leadership in Oyo North described it as part of the normal ebb and flow of political alignments, but stressed that the essence of the party—its values, membership, and regional identity—remains unmoved. For now, the message is clear: while individuals may leave, the party stays the course.