The political storm in Osun State deepened on Tuesday as Taofeek Abimbola Ajilesoro, the lawmaker representing Ife Federal Constituency, officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Ajilesoro, who was once a strong ally of Governor Ademola Adeleke, cited persistent internal crises, deep divisions, and a culture of endless litigation as his reasons for leaving the party. His exit comes just hours after reports emerged that Governor Adeleke had shelved plans to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging his loyalists to remain in the PDP.

In a letter dated July 22, 2025, and addressed to the PDP Chairman of Ilare Ward II in Ife Central Local Government Area, Ajilesoro wrote:

“Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately.”

He added:
“This decision, though difficult, has become necessary due to the persistent internal conflicts, deep-seated divisions, and the pervasive culture of legal disputes that have unfortunately come to characterise the party.”

The letter was also sent to the National Assembly, the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), and other key stakeholders in the party.

Ajilesoro’s resignation is particularly significant because he had previously vowed to follow Governor Adeleke wherever he chose to go politically. However, Adeleke recently reaffirmed his commitment to staying in the PDP, leaving some of his followers to reconsider their positions.

According to party insiders, Ajilesoro may not be the last to leave. A source told The Nation late Tuesday that another PDP federal lawmaker from Osun is expected to announce his resignation soon, also blaming unresolved party issues.

As the 2027 general elections draw nearer, these defections signal growing tension within the PDP’s Osun chapter and could reshape the political landscape in the state.