Chief Saheed Oladele, a gubernatorial aspirant on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform in Oyo State, has formally resigned from the party, citing a lack of opportunities for young leaders in decision-making roles. Oladele, who hails from Ibadan North Local Government Area, announced his departure on Saturday in Ibadan, the state capital, stating that his decision reflects the determination of his generation to push for greater inclusion in governance.
A graduate of the University of Ibadan, Oladele submitted his resignation letter to the APC chairman in his Ward 4, Ibadan North LGA. He described his departure as part of an effort to bridge the gap between older and younger generations in politics. “I have worked tirelessly for the APC, not just in pursuit of personal ambition, but in fostering unity and strengthening the party’s structures,” he said. “However, recent developments indicate that the party is not yet prepared to give young people a seat at the decision-making table.”
In his resignation letter, Oladele emphasized his long-standing commitment to the party, which he joined at its inception. He noted that his efforts to promote cohesion and harmony within the APC remain evident, but he believes the party’s current stance on youth inclusion contradicts the values he upholds and the future he envisions for Oyo State.
Oladele’s resignation comes shortly after another gubernatorial aspirant, Kunle Olatunji of Ona Ara, left the APC to join the Action Democratic Congress (ADP). The departures highlight growing discontent among young politicians in Oyo State over the APC’s approach to leadership and representation.
Oladele’s move signals a potential shift in the political landscape of Oyo State, as younger aspirants seek platforms that align with their vision for inclusive governance. His resignation underscores the challenges faced by the APC in retaining emerging leaders and addressing generational divides within its ranks.
