While it is no longer news that Honourable Dr Busayo Oluwole Oke, Member representing Obokun Oriade Federal Constituency of Osun State in the National Assembly and Chairman House Committee on Foreign Affairs has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party, there is a pertinent need to set some certain records straight.
Contrary to speculations, Honourable Oke’s resignation is not premised on political ambition or pursuit of any electoral ticket. His current mandate, generously bestowed upon him by his constituents, remains valid for another two years. Rather, this principled decision is born out of a compelling need to uphold truth, protect the integrity of public service, and align with the aspirations of his people who have, over time, been subjected to neglect, exclusion, and unfair treatment under a system that has strayed from its foundational ethos.
For decades, Honourable Oke has demonstrated exemplary commitment to the PDP, contributing tirelessly to its growth and sustaining its relevance even in difficult times. However, recent developments within the party, both at the national and state levels, have made it impossible for him to continue in good conscience.
At the national level, the PDP has become a shadow of its former self — weakened by chronic internal wrangling, factional interests, and flagrant disregard for court judgments and institutional integrity. The protracted crisis following the 2022 presidential primaries has led to a fractured leadership, with party organs unable to act cohesively. Despite a Supreme Court ruling on the rightful occupant of the position of National Secretary, the party’s National Executive Committee has chosen to ignore due process, thereby deepening confusion and disillusionment within its ranks.
In Osun State, the story is one of disconnection, disdain, and deliberate marginalisation. Representing a rural constituency, Honourable Oke has watched as development has remained the exclusive preserve of urban centres while rural communities — including those in his constituency — are left to suffer decaying infrastructure and unfulfilled promises. No meaningful road construction or infrastructure has been directed towards Obokun/Oriade, betraying the government’s disregard for balanced development.
In the last two years, no youth from the constituency has been employed by the state. Worse still, Honourable Oke’s genuine attempts to support education by facilitating the recruitment of teachers were obstructed — an action that not only disrespected his office but also jeopardised the future of the children he swore to serve.
The recent local government elections were yet another affront to democratic values. Candidates nurtured and mentored by Honourable Oke were not only robbed of a fair process but rendered inactive after their swearing-in, effectively silencing new voices of leadership. The betrayal of loyalists and dismissal of well-considered advice reflect a toxic culture of governance.
Even more troubling was the imposition of an outsider as a traditional ruler in Ido-Ajegunle,a community within Esa-Oke, an act that disregarded the customs and collective will of the community. This unilateral decision has sown discord and eroded the cultural fabric of the town.
When arsonists destroyed the palace and official vehicle of the Owa Omiran of Esa-Oke, along with other community assets worth millions of naira, the government neither condemned the act nor extended support. The silence was deafening, and the message was unmistakable: the wellbeing of his community was no longer a priority.
Within the legislative arm, Honourable Oke’s seniority, capacity, and track record have not only been ignored but undermined. Despite decades of legislative experience and leadership, a less experienced lawmaker was imposed as his leader in the House — a calculated move to erode his influence. Added to this is the Governor’s open hostility, his refusal to engage in meaningful collaboration, and his systematic exclusion of Honourable Oke from all state appointments.
Through all this, there has been no attempt at reconciliation, no consultation, and no dialogue. The environment has become too toxic to engage in constructive governance. As a seasoned lawmaker and committed representative of the people, Honourable Oke believes in service, not servitude. In light of this, he has chosen to step aside, allowing the Governor to govern without further friction.
This resignation is not an end but a reassertion of values. It is a reaffirmation of Honourable Oke’s dedication to the people of Obokun/Oriade. He remains in active service to his constituents and will continue to champion their cause, advocate for rural development, empower the youth, and defend democratic ideals with the same passion and integrity that have defined his career.
The decision to resign is not driven by personal ambition, nor is it an act of rebellion. For a man of Honourable Oke’s pedigree, neutrality in the face of dysfunction is not an option. His resignation is, above all, a call for renewal, truth, and accountability.
Honourable Oke took the courageous decision to chart a new course—one that aligns with his commitment to his people, his conscience, and the ideals of good governance.
This contained in the press release signed and made available to Peaknews in Abuja, by the Public and Media Communication Unit of the Constituency Office of Hon. Wole Oke today.
