PDP Oyo Caretaker Committee Faces Early Setback as Olaosebikan Rejects Appointment

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State is facing internal friction after one of the appointees to a recently constituted caretaker committee, Hon. Oyewole Olaosebikan, publicly rejected his nomination, citing loyalty to the state party leadership.

Olaosebikan, named a member of the PDP Oyo State Caretaker Committee by the Wike-led faction of the party’s National Working Committee, said he could not accept the appointment under the circumstances. In a formal letter addressed to party leaders, he expressed appreciation for the nomination but stressed that the formation of the committee sidelined Governor Seyi Makinde, whom he described as the legitimate leader of the PDP in the state.

He stated that accepting the position would conflict with his political convictions and loyalty to the governor, saying, “I hold His Excellency in the highest esteem, and I remain committed to the values, principles, and leadership direction he represents.”

Olaosebikan reassured the party of his continued dedication and willingness to serve in capacities that respect the party’s hierarchy and collective decision-making process.

The caretaker committee, announced on December 24, 2025, was intended to oversee the PDP’s affairs in Oyo State for a 30-day period amid internal tensions.

The Wike-aligned faction has been taking steps to dissolve certain state party structures and install caretaker committees across several states, including Oyo, arguing that these actions are necessary to restore order and cohesion within the party.

However, Governor Makinde’s supporters have criticized the move, describing it as lacking legitimacy and deepening factional divides within the party.

The refusal of a prominent member like Olaosebikan to accept the committee role underscores the ongoing struggle between rival factions within the PDP, highlighting the challenges of maintaining unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Political analysts suggest that reconciling these differences will be crucial if the PDP hopes to present a cohesive front in Oyo State and nationally.

The development also raises questions about the influence of national party figures on state-level structures and the potential impact of factionalism on the party’s electoral prospects.