By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
A prominent member of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has officially resigned from the party, citing the need to pursue his ambition on another political platform, due to the unresolved crisis at the national level of the PDP.
Oguntoyinbo, who joined PDP from the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) not long ago, said the lingering internal crisis within the PDP could pose legal challenges to his aspiration in the long run.
In a resignation letter dated 6 May, 2026, and addressed to the Oyo State Chairman of PDP, and which was made available to journalists yesterday, Oguntoyinbo said his decision followed “extensive consultations and careful reflection” on his political future and ideological direction.
The letter, routed through the PDP Chairman of Ward 8, Osengere in Egbeda Local Government Area (LGA) of Oyo State, marks a significant political development within the state branch of the party.
“I am writing to officially notify you of my decision to resign from the membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately,” he stated in the letter.
The politician, who has remained active in political discourse and youth-oriented development initiatives across Oyo State, stressed that his decision was not driven by personal ambition, but by the need to avoid possible legal disputes that could affect his aspiration.
“This decision comes after extensive consultations and careful reflection on my political direction, particularly in relation to the broader state and national vision of unity, progress, and sustainable leadership that I remain deeply committed to pursuing,” he wrote.
Oguntoyinbo, known for his grassroots political engagements and philanthropic activities across Oyo State, expressed gratitude to the PDP leadership at the national, state, and ward levels for the opportunities and support he enjoyed during his time in the party.
“I wish to express my profound appreciation to the national leadership of the PDP for the opportunity to pursue my political ambition under the party’s banner, as well as acknowledge the unwavering support, guidance, and cooperation I received from the state leadership and the ward chapter throughout my political journey within the party,” he added.
Describing politics as a vehicle for service, rather than personal rivalry, he emphasised his continued commitment to democratic participation and nation-building.
“Politics, for me, has always been a calling to serve humanity, not a contest of egos,” he declared, adding that “I remain grateful for the trust reposed in me and for the platform the PDP provided to engage constructively in nation-building and democratic participation.”
Political observers in Oyo State believe Oguntoyinbo’s resignation could trigger fresh political alignments ahead of future contests in the state, especially considering his influence among the youth and grassroots supporters.
Although he did not disclose his next political destination in the letter, sources close to the politician hinted that consultations were ongoing with associates and stakeholders across different political platforms.
The development is expected to generate reactions within the Oyo State political landscape, particularly among PDP loyalists and opposition blocs monitoring emerging alliances ahead of future elections.
In a conciliatory tone, he praised members of the PDP for their resilience and patriotism, while praying for the continued success of the party in strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
“I salute the courage, resilience, and patriotism of all PDP members and pray that the party continues to play its vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and fostering good governance,” he stated.
He further noted that he was leaving the party with “no bitterness or regret,” describing his experience within the PDP as “fulfilling and memorable.”
“As I take a new path in my political journey, I do so with no bitterness or regret, but with sincere gratitude to every member of the PDP family who contributed to making my experience both fulfilling and memorable,” he said.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Amb. Oguntoyinbo.
