Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, says Governor Ademola Adeleke will announce his new political party on or before December 13 following his resignation from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).
Adeleke had confirmed earlier that he submitted his resignation letter to PDP executives in Sagba Abogunde, Ward 2, Ede North LGA on November 4.
Speaking on Rave FM, Osogbo, on Tuesday, Alimi said the governor’s exit was driven by the prolonged leadership crisis rocking the PDP at the national level.
“The governor of Osun State has formally resigned his membership from the PDP. He submitted his resignation letter long ago,” Alimi said.
He urged residents to remain calm and continue supporting the administration, describing the governor’s move as “long overdue”.
On the motive behind the defection, Alimi said the internal crisis in the PDP became too risky with the Osun governorship election approaching and the INEC nomination window closing on December 15.
“Had it not been for the division at the national level, which plays a key role in nominations, the governor wouldn’t have defected,” he said.
Responding to suggestions that the APC welcomed Adeleke’s exit, Alimi dismissed the claim, saying the opposition is only pretending.
“They know what has hit them. They thought he would contest under PDP so they could use the national crisis to challenge him. But Adeleke is ahead of them,” he said.
On when the governor will announce his new political platform, Alimi said consultations are ongoing and confirmation will come soon.
“On or before December 12 or 13, everyone will know. The deadline for nomination and party primaries is December 15,” he said.
Alimi added that Adeleke’s resignation would not have happened if the PDP were united.