PDP Ward Leaders in Osun Hail Exit of Former Senator Felix Ogunwale, Reaffirm Loyalty to Adeleke

In what has been described as a “relief” by grassroots members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State, former Senator Felix Kola Ogunwale has formally resigned from the party, ending a period of strained relations with the state’s political leadership. Ogunwale, who represented Osun Central Senatorial District between 2003 and 2007, and more recently served as chairman of the Governing Council of Osun State College of Health Technology, Ilesa, announced his exit in a letter submitted to the Osun PDP chairman, Sunday Bisi, and Governor Ademola Adeleke.

The announcement of Ogunwale’s departure was made public during a special ward congress of PDP Ward 01, Iragbiji, held on Monday. The congress was convened to discuss the state of the party in light of the senator’s decision and to affirm the party’s stance moving forward.

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Ward 01 Congress Welcomes Ogunwale’s Exit as a Fresh Start

Addressing party members and observers at the congress, Taibat Oladimeji, the Ward 01 Chairperson, whose remarks were delivered by Abayomi Adegoke, confirmed that Ogunwale had ceased active participation in the party for nearly a year before tendering his resignation. She described his departure as a welcome development for local party leaders and loyalists.

“The special ward congress affirmed that the exit of Senator Felix Kola Ogunwale (Jumokol) from the PDP was a relief for us at the ward and local government level,” Oladimeji stated. “He has not participated in any party activities for about a year and we have filled the gap long before now.”

The meeting was attended by party executives, leaders, and stakeholders from the ward, which boasts the largest voter register in Boripe Local Government Area. Observers from the PDP were also present, lending legitimacy to the congress proceedings and resolutions.

Ward Leaders Reaffirm Support for PDP and Governor Adeleke

Despite Ogunwale’s exit, Ward 01 leaders used the occasion to reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the PDP and its state leadership under Governor Ademola Adeleke. A vote of confidence was passed on the governor during the meeting, with commendations for his administration’s projects and people-centered governance.

“The congress resolved to use this medium to intimate the leadership of our party at the state and national level with our position,” Oladimeji said. “All of us—the ward leaders, party executives, and members—remain faithful, steadfast, undeterred, and resolute in upholding our party.”

She noted that Adeleke’s performance across key sectors and his intervention projects in Boripe and other parts of the state had strengthened the relationship between the ruling party and the grassroots. The ward executives pledged their continued loyalty and promised to rally full support for PDP candidates in future elections.

Ogunwale’s Resignation: A Move for “Personal Growth”

In his resignation letter made public by the ward leadership, Felix Ogunwale cited “personal growth” and a sincere desire to prioritize the welfare of his constituents as his reasons for quitting the party. While he did not elaborate on the specifics of his future political plans, the tone of his letter suggested a departure without rancor, though tensions with the Adeleke-led administration had been rumored for months.

Ogunwale had previously stepped down from his position at the Osun State Health Technology Governing Council—an action that further fueled speculations about a growing rift with the state government. However, no official statements or press briefings from Ogunwale have followed his resignation. Attempts to contact him via mobile and text message were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.

Implications for Osun PDP Ahead of 2026 Elections

The resignation of a senior figure like Felix Ogunwale is a notable event within the Osun PDP, but reactions from the grassroots suggest the party remains stable and united. The firm stance taken by Ward 01 leaders, alongside their open endorsement of Governor Adeleke, points to a strengthened internal cohesion at the local level.

Observers believe that the swift organizational response and public show of loyalty to the governor help reinforce the PDP’s image as a party grounded in grassroots support and responsive leadership. With the 2026 gubernatorial election in view, party unity and strategic messaging will be critical for Adeleke and his allies.

For Ogunwale, his next political destination remains unclear. Whether he will align with another party or retire from politics altogether is yet to be seen. However, his departure marks the end of a political chapter and the beginning of a new era for PDP in Boripe Local Government.