The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ward 07, Ikeji Arakeji, Oriade Local Government, Osun State, has been dealt another crippling blow with the resignation of Hon. Tunji Iyanda, a titan of grassroots mobilisation and a steadfast pillar in the party’s community outreach.
After 23 years of dedicated service, Iyanda announced his departure from the PDP in the letter addressed to his Ward Party Chairman dated 2nd May, 2025. In the letter, he raised concerns over non-inclusiveness, shrinking democratic space, and restrictions on freedom of expression within the party. These grievances of his, similarly, echo those of other recent defectors. Notably, Hon. Oluwole Oke also left the party amid similar complaints of marginalisation and lack of internal democracy.
For over two decades, Iyanda’s unwavering commitment, financial support, and deep-rooted connection with the people have been the engine driving PDP’s victories and credibility in his Ikeji axis of Oriade. His departure is not merely the loss of a member, but it is the shattering of the party’s backbone at the grassroots, where elections are truly won and lost.
Hon. Iyanda’s departure represents more than just the loss of a member; it is the collapse of a crucial pillar of the PDP’s grassroots strength in the Ikeji area, where his deep community ties and financial support were instrumental to the party’s electoral successes. His exit leaves a leadership vacuum and weakens the party’s connection with the local electorate at a critical time, as the PDP prepares for a pivotal gubernatorial re-election.
Stakeholders and observers alike acknowledge that the PDP’s grassroots machinery now stands weakened, its unity shaken, and its future in the balance. The ripple effect of Iyanda’s defection is already being felt, with waves of loyal supporters poised to follow him to a new political home, threatening to decimate the party’s base and erode its hard-won influence.
As the PDP grapples with this monumental loss, the call for urgent reforms and genuine inclusiveness grows louder to halt the haemorrhage.
Without a swift and meaningful change, the party risks not just further defections but a fast ride into oblivion in Oriade and beyond.
The mass exodus of key figures like Iyanda is not a mere coincidence or the machination of rival parties. It is a symptom of a party haemorrhaging from within, unable to stem the tide of disillusionment or inspire confidence among its members and supporters.
This defection will have a huge boomerang effect on the party as torrents of followers are waiting to board with him to his new platform.
