The leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Saki West Local Government has reaffirmed that the party remains united, strong and committed to its progressive ideology despite the recent exit of a few members. Party leaders maintained that the development has not weakened its structures but has instead reinforced its determination to consolidate its grassroots support ahead of future elections.
The position of the party was contained in separate remarks by key stakeholders who reacted to reports that a former commissioner and current aspirant for the House of Representatives seat representing Atisbo, Saki East and Saki West Federal Constituency had allegedly attempted to attract SDP members with financial inducements and other incentives like a plot of land from the public properties they had used their position to hijacked
According to the party, the alleged efforts recorded minimal success, with only a few individuals reportedly leaving the party. The SDP leadership argued that those who departed had, over time, distanced themselves from the party’s core values and ideological principles, insisting that genuine commitment to progressive politics cannot be replaced by monetary influence.
Reacting to the development, the Leader of the SDP in Oke-Ogun, Pa Raheem Durojaye, described the party as one built on a solid and enduring foundation. He stated that the SDP in Saki West cannot be destabilised by politicians seeking political relevance through what he termed “the back door,” adding that the party’s strength lies in the loyalty and conviction of its members rather than temporary political alliances.
Similarly, the Chairman of the SDP in Saki West, Hon. Titilope Alabi, dismissed suggestions that the departure of a few members constituted a setback. He maintained that the situation had instead helped the party identify individuals who prioritised personal interests above collective goals. According to him, the SDP has consistently distinguished itself as a political platform driven by discipline, integrity and progressive ideals rather than financial inducement or transactional politics.
Also speaking, the party’s House of Assembly candidate in the last election and the current Oyo North Senatorial Candidate, Hon. Saheed Adesokan (SP), described the situation as “a blessing in disguise.” He expressed confidence that the party is now more united than ever, stressing that it can focus on strengthening its internal structures and expanding its political reach without internal distractions.
The Women’s Leader of the party, Madam Sakirat Adewale, assured members that the women’s wing remains fully mobilised across all eleven wards in Saki West. She stated that ward women leaders continue to work actively at the grassroots and remain committed to securing electoral victories for the party whenever elections are conducted.
In the same vein, the State Organising Secretary, Alhaji Fatai Olayiwola, said the party remains satisfied with its current level of cohesion and organisational strength. He maintained that individuals who no longer believe in the SDP’s progressive philosophy have simply chosen platforms that better align with their personal ambitions, while committed members remain focused on building a stronger political movement.
The Party Secretary, Comrade Adejumobi Idowu, also described the voluntary exit of the affected members as a positive development, arguing that many of them had become inactive in party affairs. He said the development would allow the party to concentrate on strengthening its structures and enhancing internal unity without unnecessary distractions.
Speaking on behalf of the ward chairmen, the Chairman of Ward 3 disclosed that party leaders had consistently cautioned members against allowing material inducements to influence their political decisions. He affirmed that ward executives and women leaders across Wards 1 to 11 remain united and committed to expanding the party’s grassroots presence while promoting the ideals and programmes of the SDP.
Reaffirming the party’s overall position, the SDP leadership declared that the organisation in Saki West remains intact, focused and united under the leadership of its National Leader, Rt. Hon. Mulikat Akande Adeola. The party insisted that the departure of a few individuals has neither diminished its political relevance nor affected its organisational capacity.
The party concluded by expressing confidence that electoral success is ultimately determined by the electorate through the ballot box rather than by financial inducement. It reiterated its commitment to strengthening its grassroots structures, promoting issue-based politics and sustaining its progressive ideology as preparations continue for future elections.
