Oyo State politician Chief Saheed Oladele has left the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for the African Action Congress (AAC), alongside his running mate, Mrs Damola Jaiye.
The development was announced in a statement issued by the Saheed Oladele Media Office on Wednesday in Ibadan.
Oladele had previously been associated with the SDP’s governorship nomination amid a dispute over the party’s ticket. He formally resigned from the party on Wednesday, September 16, before announcing his move to the AAC.
Oladele Explains Decision to Change Political Platform
According to the statement, Oladele said his decision was motivated by his determination to address what he described as the challenges confronting the people of Oyo State.
He cited modern slavery, widespread poverty, educational decline, inadequate local government development and the alleged mortgaging of the state’s future.
These descriptions represent the politician’s stated assessment of the state’s condition and his explanation for changing political affiliation.
The move to the AAC, alongside Jaiye, marks a change in the political platform through which the pair intends to pursue its political ambitions.
Political Implications for Oyo State
Party defections and changes in political affiliation are a recurring feature of electoral politics in Nigeria.
Such moves can affect campaign organisation, party negotiations, candidate recognition and the alignment of political supporters.
However, the political significance of Oladele’s move should be distinguished from the formal question of his candidacy and eligibility under applicable electoral procedures.
The AAC’s official position, nomination arrangements and relevant electoral documentation will be important in determining the status of the ticket.
The Road to 2027
The development comes as political parties and aspirants prepare for the 2027 general elections.
Oladele’s stated concerns about governance, poverty, education and local government administration form part of the policy issues that political actors are presenting to voters.
The extent to which those issues translate into a formal campaign programme should be assessed through published policy proposals, official party statements and the candidates’ subsequent engagements.