Oyo PDP Chieftain Kazeem Abidikugu Dumps Party Over Lack of Transparency and Fairness

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State has suffered another setback following the resignation of one of its key members, Kazeem Abidikugu, a well-known party chieftain and political mobiliser. Abidikugu announced his departure through a formal letter, expressing deep dissatisfaction with what he described as a “complete erosion of democratic principles” within the party’s state structure.

In his statement, Abidikugu lamented that the PDP in Oyo had deviated from its founding ideals of fairness, openness, and inclusiveness. He noted that rather than promoting internal democracy, the party leadership had fostered a culture of favoritism and exclusion that left many loyal members sidelined in decision-making processes.

According to him, his decision was the culmination of months of reflection on the party’s declining values. He stated that the environment within the PDP had become intolerant of dissenting opinions and resistant to accountability, making it impossible for reform-minded members to thrive.

Abidikugu stressed that his resignation was not driven by personal ambition but by a desire to preserve his integrity and commitment to democratic governance. “Politics should serve the people and be anchored on transparency,” he reportedly said, “but what we have now in the party contradicts those ideals.”

The departure of Abidikugu, known for his grassroots connections and influence across several local government areas, is seen as a blow to the Oyo PDP ahead of future electoral contests. His decision comes at a time when internal rifts continue to widen between party factions, raising concerns about unity and organisational strength.

Political observers note that Abidikugu’s resignation reflects a growing pattern among PDP leaders across Nigeria, who have voiced similar frustrations over what they call the party’s failure to reform and uphold internal fairness. In Oyo, this trend could erode the party’s ability to maintain its dominance in upcoming political battles.

Party insiders, however, insist that the PDP remains strong and that ongoing disagreements will not derail its broader objectives. They argue that such exits are part of the normal churn of party politics and do not represent a systemic collapse. Still, the tone of Abidikugu’s exit statement suggests deeper grievances that may not be easily resolved.

As the political atmosphere in Oyo State continues to shift, attention now turns to Abidikugu’s next move—whether he will align with another party, form a new political front, or remain an independent voice advocating reform. Whatever the outcome, his resignation has added fresh tension to an already unsettled political landscape in the state.