Kwara PDP Crisis Escalates As Guber Candidate Defects From Saraki Camp

The crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has intensified following the declaration by one of its governorship candidates, Hassan Oladimeji, that he has formally cut ties with former Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

According to Ireporter Online, Oladimeji, who is recognised as the governorship candidate of the Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the PDP, stated that he now fully aligns with the Turaki camp, distancing himself from the Saraki-aligned bloc as well as the faction associated with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

He made the remarks while reacting to his recent suspension by the PDP leadership in Magaji Ngeri Ward, Ilorin West Local Government Area, dismissing the disciplinary action as invalid and lacking authority.

Oladimeji insisted that the suspension holds no weight, arguing that those who announced it no longer have jurisdiction over his political standing within the party. He further explained that internal factional divisions within the PDP place him firmly within the Turaki-led structure, which he claimed shields him from actions taken by rival blocs.

He acknowledged his long-standing political relationship with Saraki, noting that the former Senate President had been his leader for over two decades, but maintained that their working relationship had now ended. He also clarified that while Saraki remains influential within the Wike-aligned faction in Kwara, he cannot simultaneously lead opposing factions within the party.

Oladimeji also rejected claims that his political realignment was in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stressing that he remains within the PDP and has not shifted allegiance to any other party.

He, however, expressed optimism that reconciliation was still possible within the PDP, attributing the ongoing crisis to the absence of early dialogue and internal conflict resolution mechanisms.

Meanwhile, the Magaji Ngeri Ward executives had earlier suspended him over alleged anti-party activities and misconduct, citing his failure to appear before a disciplinary committee despite being invited. The ward leadership stated that his non-compliance amounted to an admission of wrongdoing, leading to a one-month suspension from party activities.

The development has further deepened the leadership crisis in the Kwara PDP, which now has parallel governorship candidates emerging from rival factions. While Oladimeji is backed by the Turaki-led camp, the Saraki-aligned bloc recognises Engr. Bolakale Kawu as its candidate.

The situation continues to heighten uncertainty within the opposition party as internal divisions widen ahead of the 2027 general elections.