Defection: We’re not for sale, Osun PDP lawmakers declare

Members of the Osun State House of Assembly have actively refuted allegations suggesting that certain members intend to defect to the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) within the state.

Rumors have circulated regarding the possibility that the nine lawmakers representing the Ife/Ijesa Senatorial District would align with their federal counterparts in transitioning from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

During an interaction with members of the press at the Assembly complex, the Speaker, Hon. Adewale Egbedun, stated that these legislators are not for sale and reaffirmed their support for Governor Ademola Adeleke.

His words, “We the Honourable Members are men of honour. We are not for sale. We are not moved by noise or pressure. We hold the mandate of our people, and we intend to keep that trust with dignity, loyalty, and a clear conscience.

“The 25 honourable members of the Osun State House of Assembly elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party are united, loyal, and fully committed to the government of Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke and to the party that brought us here, which is the PDP.

“There is no division in this House. There is no defection. There is no crisis. The rumours flying around are simply rumours. And we are not in the business of chasing shadows.”

Fielding questions from newsmen, the lawmaker representing Obokun State Constituency, Mr. Adewumi Adeyemi, also said the federal lawmakers from the district have their reasons for leaving the party and quickly added that the nine lawmakers from the area remain intact in the PDP and with Governor Adeleke.

Also, Fatunmise Olumide from the Ife-East State Constituency stressed that the resolution the lawmakers passed is to ensure that Governor Adeleke is re-elected for another term in office again in 2026.

“We are not just passing a vote of confidence on the governor; we are assuring the public of our commitments towards ensuring his re-election irrespective of the action of federal lawmakers from our areas,” he added.