Chidinma Iroegbu
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Saheed Oladele, has defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). He said the move was driven by conviction and political ideology.
Oladele announced his defection on April 13, 2026, before party leaders, youth groups and journalists. The declaration marks a high-profile exit from the ruling APC.
He disclosed that he rejected governorship offers from two major political parties. He said his decision was to align with the SDP’s principles.
Oladele described his entry into the SDP as a return to familiar political roots. He linked his decision to the party’s historic role in Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
He recalled participating in the 1993 pro-democracy protests in Akure. The protests were in defence of the mandate of late Chief MKO Abiola.
“I am proud to join a party rooted in justice, equity and progress,” he said. He added that the SDP represents the ideals he believes in.
Oladele dismissed claims that he should remain in the APC for political benefits. He said his ambition is based on service, not personal gain.
“I refuse to be part of a system that sacrifices the people for political convenience,” he said. He urged Nigerians to reject poor governance.
He positioned his defection as a strategic step ahead of the 2027 elections. Oladele said he aims to reposition the SDP as a major force in Oyo State.
He also called on young Nigerians to engage actively in politics. “The future will not be handed to us; we must claim it,” he said.