Sikirullai Ogundele, Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, attributed the party’s defeat in the 2023 governorship election to alleged highhandedness by its candidate, Ladi Adebutu.

During a meeting at the party’s secretariat in Abeokuta, Ogundele accused Adebutu of causing internal strife and disregarding party leadership, stating that his actions contributed significantly to the party’s electoral setback.

Ogundele claimed that despite efforts by influential figures like Atiku Abubakar and Olusegun Obasanjo to sway Adebutu towards accommodating former governor Gbenga Daniel on the ballot, Adebutu remained obstinate, which, he believes, cost the party several seats.

Expressing determination to reclaim the party’s integrity from Adebutu’s influence, Ogundele emphasized the need for the PDP to operate as an inclusive political entity that values every member.

Adekunle Akinlade, the party’s deputy governorship candidate in the 2023 election, echoed the call for party reform, stressing the importance of unity and discipline to secure victory in future elections.

In response, Adebutu, through his spokesperson Afolabi Orekoya, dismissed Ogundele’s accusations as baseless, suggesting they stemmed from personal motives rather than genuine concern for the party’s welfare.

Adebutu refused to engage in a verbal altercation with Ogundele, highlighting that the chairman’s stance lacked broad support within the party’s executive council.

Dismissing Ogundele’s allegations, Adebutu emphasized that external factors, not his actions, were responsible for the party’s electoral setbacks, asserting his commitment to the party’s success despite internal challenges.