Ex-Ondo Deputy Governor Leaves PDP Moves Closer to Joining APC

Spread the love

A significant tremor has hit Ondo State’s political terrain following the resignation of Otunba Omolade Oluwateru from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The former Deputy Governor, who also once represented Nigeria as Ambassador to Uganda, has drawn the curtain on a political journey within the party that spanned over two decades.

Oluwateru, who deputised the late Governor Olusegun Agagu between 2003 and 2009, announced his decision publicly during his 79th birthday gathering in Akure. The symbolic timing underscored what he described as a personal and political turning point.

Why He Walked Away

Tracing his roots back to 1998 as one of the PDP’s early pillars, the elder statesman expressed regret over what he sees as the party’s gradual erosion. According to him, persistent internal wrangling and unresolved disputes have rendered the structure unstable. He singled out developments linked to Nyesom Wike, arguing that the ripple effects of those actions have further weakened cohesion across the party’s national framework.

In a striking metaphor, he likened the PDP’s condition to a collapsed shelter, suggesting that the party no longer offers the political refuge it once did. Confirming that his resignation letter had been delivered to his ward leadership, he made it clear that his exit was both formal and final.

APC Signals Open Doors

While Oluwateru has not officially declared a new political home, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has wasted little time expressing readiness to receive him. The party’s Ondo State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, described the former deputy governor as a principled progressive whose loyalty during his time in office left a lasting impression.

Adetimehin also praised his alignment with the ideals championed by the late Agagu, presenting him as a figure whose credibility could further solidify the APC’s base in the state.

A Decision Still Under Consultation

Despite growing speculation, Oluwateru has maintained that his next move will not be rushed. He revealed that consultations with his political associates and supporters are ongoing. Notably, members of different political tendencies attended his birthday event — from APC loyalists to PDP stalwarts and independents — reflecting his broad network of influence.

He indicated that within roughly two weeks, he would clarify his political direction, emphasizing that his decision would mirror the collective voice of his grassroots supporters rather than personal ambition alone.

Broader Political Implications

The potential crossover carries strategic weight. Ondo State remains a politically sensitive region where alliances and defections often shape electoral calculations. Should Oluwateru formally join the APC, observers believe his stature and long-standing political relationships could recalibrate alignments ahead of future contests.

Supporters within the APC argue that his presence would not only strengthen the party locally but also contribute to national consolidation behind Bola Ahmed Tinubu and ongoing federal reform efforts.

Voices From Within the APC

Further reinforcing this optimism, Asiwaju Muyiwa Asagunla, Director General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), commended Oluwateru’s candour and humility. He suggested that the former deputy governor had long foreseen instability within the PDP, implying that his departure was less reactionary and more a calculated response to political realities.

Asagunla framed the anticipated defection as a boost to the APC’s structure, particularly in rallying support for Tinubu’s future electoral ambitions.

Commentary and Analysis

Political defections in Nigeria often extend beyond personal dissatisfaction; they reflect shifting power centres and evolving alliances. Oluwateru’s exit illustrates how veteran politicians reassess loyalty when party cohesion falters. His move, if finalised, may signal broader dissatisfaction within PDP ranks in Ondo and potentially encourage similar recalibrations.

Moreover, the episode highlights the APC’s strategy of absorbing experienced figures to reinforce institutional depth. The coming weeks will reveal whether this development marks a singular transition or the beginning of a larger political realignment within the state.

For now, Ondo watches closely as consultations continue and speculation grows. What remains certain is that Oluwateru’s decision has already reshaped conversations within both major parties.