The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has openly resisted its dissolution by the party’s National Working Committee, insisting that the state leadership remains legitimate and functional.
In a statement issued in Osogbo on Friday and signed by the state chairman, Sunday Bisi, the State Working Committee maintained that the party’s structures in Osun are still intact and operating within the law.
The committee described the move by the national leadership as improper, arguing that its authority was derived from due process and the collective decision of party members in the state. It urged loyalists to remain composed, alert and committed, while disregarding directives from what it termed “unauthorised sources.”
The SWC reaffirmed its backing for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration, stressing that the party remains focused on upcoming electoral engagements and the interests of the people of Osun.
However, not all members of the party share this position. A faction known as Professionals in Osun PDP has praised the NWC’s decision to install a caretaker committee, saying the step was long overdue.
In a separate statement, the group’s chairman, Sam Segun-Progress, argued that the dissolved state executive had failed in its duties and that the caretaker panel offered a fresh start for the party. He called on the interim leadership to reconcile aggrieved members and rebuild unity within the party.
The NWC had on Thursday announced caretaker committees for five states, including Osun, citing relevant provisions of the PDP Constitution.
The party’s National Organising Secretary, Theophilus Shan, said the move was made on behalf of the National Executive Committee and was constitutionally backed.
For Osun State, Tunde Tijani was named caretaker chairman, with Bamidele Seyi-Abiola as secretary and Lateef Mumini Obide as a member. Other members include Sarafa Gbadamosi, Adewoyin Babatunde, Ajileye Wasiu Aderemi and Oluresi Adebanji.
Shan clarified that the caretaker committees would oversee party affairs for a maximum of 90 days or until new executives are elected.
