News, Politics

My Defection to the Progressive Party: A Salient Declaration

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 23rd, 2025.

I begin by expressing my profound gratitude to Almighty Allah, the Creator of the Heaven and the Earth , who has brought me this far in my political sojourn. His grace and guidance have been the cornerstone of my journey.

With utmost humility, I extend my sincere appreciation to the leadership and members of my former party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), for their unwavering love, support and camaraderie over the years. I reserve special recognition for my political father and mentor, Professor Adewale Oladipo, whose guidance has remained unequalled and whose legacy in shaping political thought and character I deeply cherish.

However, consistency is the true foundation of trust and as the statesman Roy T. Bennett rightly said, “Consistency is the true foundation of trust. Either keep your promises or do not make them.”

It is important to clarify that the leadership of the PDP in Osun State had earlier made overtures towards aligning with the progressive party, but certain internal narratives shifted along the way. The recent communique by Osun PDP publicly endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ,a sitting president of the opposition party further highlighted a divergence between stated principles and actual practice.

As a firm believer in political loyalty and ideological alignment, I find it inconsistent to remain in a party that covertly supports the opposition while maintaining a contradictory public posture. This reality underscores the necessity of my decision to officially defect to the Progressive Party.

In my political ideology, loyalty to the party and its leadership is non-negotiable. Therefore, I choose to align with the progressive camp, pledging my full support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and for all progressive candidates across board.

To my ever-resilient supporters and loyalists in Ife Federal Constituency, I say thank you from the depths of my heart. Your steadfastness, love and commitment through thick and thin have been a source of strength and encouragement. May your future be bright, filled with prosperity and adorned with honour and glamour.

Thank you.

Hon. Taofeek Abimbola Ajilesoro

Member, House of Representatives

Ife Federal Constituency.