A senior figure in Nigeria’s opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has publicly criticized the party’s recent electoral defeat in a closely watched bye-election, signaling broader challenges for the faction. Sikirulai Ogundele, the former PDP chairman in Ogun State, derided the party’s 2023 governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu, after the PDP lost in both the polling unit and ward of Iperu-Remo during Saturday’s vote to fill a vacant federal legislative seat. Ogundele, who recently defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), claimed the result reflects dwindling confidence in the PDP’s leadership.
The bye-election was held to replace Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, a former lawmaker representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency, who died in January following a brief illness. In Adebutu’s home polling unit, Iperu III, the APC secured 96 votes, overshadowing the PDP’s 60, with minor parties receiving negligible support. The contest primarily pitted APC candidate Adesola Elegbeji against PDP’s Bolarinwa Oluwole.
Ogundele linked the PDP’s underperformance to an exodus of members to the APC, describing the ruling party as “more formidable, well-organized, and credible.” He argued the outcome aligns with the preferences of voters in Remo Federal Constituency and broader Ogun State, where support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and Governor Dapo Abiodun’s state government remains strong.
“This defeat is a wake-up call. The PDP’s current leadership has lost the trust of the people, not just here but across Nigeria,” Ogundele stated, predicting further electoral setbacks unless the party undertakes reforms. His remarks underscore deepening fractures within the PDP, which has faced internal strife and defections amid struggles to redefine its role as Nigeria’s main opposition force.
The APC’s victory in a constituency once considered a PDP stronghold highlights shifting political dynamics ahead of future elections, with analysts noting the ruling party’s growing consolidation in regions previously dominated by rivals. The outcome also raises questions about the PDP’s ability to regroup and address voter disillusionment — a challenge magnified by public criticism from former allies like Ogundele.
