Former Ondo Deputy Governor Otunba Omolade Oluwateru has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a move that signals a significant shift in Ondo State politics. After decades of membership, Oluwateru cited the ongoing internal crisis within the PDP as the primary catalyst for his departure. He made this announcement during the celebration of his 79th birthday in Akure, the state capital, marking the end of a long political chapter with the party he helped form in 1998.
Oluwateru expressed deep dissatisfaction with the current state of the PDP, specifically highlighting the damaging actions of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. He believes these actions have left the PDP in a fractured and irrecoverable condition, likening the situation to a house with its roof completely blown off.
What is the primary reason for Otunba Omolade Oluwateru’s resignation from the PDP? The former Ondo Deputy Governor cited the ongoing internal crisis within the PDP, particularly the impact of Nyesom Wike’s actions, as the key reason for his decision to leave the party after decades of membership.
The former Deputy Governor, who served under the late Governor Olusegun Agagu from 2003 to 2009, confirmed that he has already submitted his resignation letter to the chairman of his ward. His decision to leave the PDP comes after a period of introspection and consultation with his constituents and political allies.
While Oluwateru has not yet officially joined another political party, there is strong indication that his next move will be to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The Chairman of the APC in Ondo State, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, has publicly expressed his readiness to welcome Oluwateru, describing him as a “true progressive” and praising his longstanding commitment to politics and his loyalty to the philosophy of the late Governor Agagu.
Oluwateru himself hinted at the possibility of joining the APC, noting the significant presence of APC supporters at his birthday celebration. He stated that he would consult with his people and make his decision known to the state in two weeks, indicating a strong likelihood of aligning with the party his constituents favor.
Engr. Adetimehin expressed confidence that Oluwateru’s defection would strengthen the APC and contribute to national progress, particularly in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s transformative agenda. He emphasized Oluwateru’s integrity and the value he would bring to Ondo State politics.
Asiwaju Muyiwa Asagunla, the Director General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), also lauded Oluwateru’s integrity and humility. Asagunla suggested that Oluwateru’s move would be beneficial for both the APC and the reelection prospects of President Tinubu, further underscoring the strategic importance of this political realignment.
Oluwateru’s foresight regarding the decline of the PDP is also a factor that led to his eventual departure. This proactive approach to political shifts demonstrates a keen understanding of the evolving political landscape.
Is Otunba Omolade Oluwateru joining the APC? While not officially confirmed, Oluwateru has strongly hinted at joining the APC, and the party’s leadership has expressed enthusiasm about his potential defection.
The political implications of this move are significant for Ondo State. The departure of a prominent figure like Oluwateru from the PDP could impact the party’s strength and influence in the region, while his potential entry into the APC could bolster its position.
This political development highlights the dynamic nature of Nigerian politics, where party affiliations can shift based on internal party dynamics and broader political strategies.
Moving forward, all eyes will be on Otunba Omolade Oluwateru’s official announcement within the next two weeks. His decision will undoubtedly shape the political narrative in Ondo State and beyond.
