Two prominent politicians — Adekunle Akinlade, former deputy governorship candidate in Ogun State, and Istifanus Gyang, former senator from Plateau State — have resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing internal strife and a lack of democratic principles within the party.
Akinlade, who served as the PDP’s 2023 deputy governorship candidate in Ogun State, announced his decision on Monday. He accused the party of factionalism, institutional bias, and neglect of his political bloc. He revealed that the PDP had replaced his group’s verified register of 49,000 members with one from a rival faction during local government and state congresses in 2024, leading to parallel congresses and prolonged legal battles.
In a statement, Akinlade said, “Rather than play the role of an impartial arbiter, the NWC [National Working Committee] colluded with the other group, abandoning its constitutional responsibility to foster unity.” He criticised the PDP’s leadership for failing to reconcile internal divisions and promised to announce his next political move after consultations.
Similarly, former Senator Istifanus Gyang, who represented Plateau North in the 9th National Assembly, resigned from the PDP in a letter dated May 26, 2025. Gyang expressed disappointment in the party’s inability to uphold democratic ideals and effectively represent Plateau State’s interests at the national level.
Gyang wrote, “The party has parted ways with basic democratic tenets and is no longer people-centric.” He pledged to continue advocating for equity, fairness, and good governance outside the PDP.
The departure of these key figures highlights ongoing challenges within the PDP, raising questions about its ability to maintain cohesion ahead of future elections.
Advertisement
