The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suffered a fresh setback following the resignation of Taofeek Arapaja, the National Secretary of the Seyi Makinde-backed Turaki-led faction of the party.
Arapaja’s departure marks a significant development in Oyo State politics and comes amid growing political realignments ahead of future electoral contests.
Sources familiar with the development disclosed that the former deputy governor of Oyo State has already begun consultations ahead of a planned move to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The former PDP chieftain has also held talks with the Oyo State APC governorship candidate, Sharafadeen Alli, further fueling speculation that his switch to the ruling party is imminent.
Arapaja is a prominent political figure in Oyo State and has played key roles within the PDP over the years. In addition to serving as deputy governor of the state, he also held the position of National Deputy Chairman (South) of the party.
His resignation is expected to generate significant political reactions, particularly within the PDP in Oyo State, where he has long been regarded as one of the influential figures aligned with Governor Seyi Makinde.
The development comes at a time when political parties are intensifying consultations and repositioning ahead of future elections, with defections and alliance-building increasingly shaping the political landscape across the country
While details surrounding the reasons for Arapaja’s decision have not yet been made public, his meetings with key APC figures have strengthened expectations that he will formally join the ruling party in the coming days.
At the time of filing this report, Governor Seyi Makinde had not publicly commented on Arapaja’s resignation from the PDP or the reports linking him with a move to the APC.
Similarly, neither the PDP leadership nor the APC had issued an official statement regarding the development.
Political observers, however, believe Arapaja’s exit could have implications for the balance of power within the PDP in Oyo State, given his long-standing influence and political network in the state.
His anticipated defection is also expected to boost the APC’s efforts to strengthen its position in Oyo politics as preparations continue for future electoral contests.
