A major crack has emerged within the political family of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, as his former Chief of Staff and long-time ally, Chief Luqman Oyebisi Ilaka, has reportedly parted ways with the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Sources close to the politician indicate that Ilaka has concluded plans to leave the party and will make his next political move public very soon.
Chief Ilaka, who holds the traditional title of Ladilu of Oyo Kingdom, was a central figure in the coalition that brought Governor Makinde to power in 2019. He served as the Governor's first Chief of Staff before the cabinet was dissolved in 2021. Despite remaining in the party and securing the PDP ticket for the Oyo Central Senatorial District in the 2023 general elections, Ilaka lost the bid to the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.
The decision to leave the PDP is believed to stem from deep-seated grievances regarding the internal management of the party and the alleged sidelining of key stakeholders who were instrumental in the party's initial success. Political observers note that Ilaka’s exit is part of a broader unraveling of the 2019 coalition, with several other aggrieved stalwarts reportedly weighing their options as the race for 2027 gathers momentum. While his next destination remains officially unannounced, speculation is rife that he may align with a new political force or defect to the major opposition, the APC.
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