Politics is a game of interests, not emotions. What appears to be hostility today may become cooperation tomorrow when interests align. Political engagement should therefore remain a contest of ideas, principles and service rather than a platform for personal hostility.
I give all praise, honour and adoration to Almighty Allah for preserving my life and granting me the opportunity to continue pursuing my passion for politics. Outside politics, my primary occupation remains the Royal Umbrella business, which has sustained me over the years.
I hold a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Quantity Surveying from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and I remain proud of my humble beginnings.
At this important moment, I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to my mother, Alhaja Yidiat Arike Olajide; my sister and father figure, Mrs. A. M. Adegoke; Dr. Ismail Adewusi; my supportive wife, Mrs. Arike Olajide; my beloved children; and Rev. Mother Aloore Idowu Smith, all of whom stood firmly by me when I joined the political movement of Governor Seyi Makinde in 2018 after my return from the United States.
To His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, I express my sincere gratitude. Without exaggeration or political sentiment, your administration has transformed Oyo State in remarkable ways since 2019.
I remain proud to have supported your vision and leadership, which inspired me to give you the nickname “Fogbontolu.” Many people also came to know me as “Ore Gomina” because of my unwavering belief in your ideology and leadership.
Your Excellency, I have always taken pride in our friendship. While God has blessed you abundantly, I remain grateful for your kindness, encouragement and support throughout our relationship. May Almighty Allah continue to strengthen and bless you.
I also extend my appreciation to the leadership and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) across Oyo State.
Through the State Chairman, Chief Dayo Ogungbenro, and my brother, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, I convey my gratitude to party faithful for their support and friendship over the years.
My profound appreciation also goes to the elders and members of the Advisory Councils through Chief Mikhail Adebayo Lawal and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, whose guidance and encouragement have been invaluable.
I equally thank the leadership and members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, particularly Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, Hon. Babajide Gabriel and Hon. (Dr.) Mrs. Comforter Olajide, while extending my appreciation to all members of the 9th and 10th Assemblies.
To members of the House of Representatives from Oyo State, I extend my gratitude through Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, Hon. Abass Agboworin, Hon. Stanley Olajide, Hon. Anthony Adepoju (Ibarapa Kan) and Hon. O’Shine, appreciating every federal lawmaker for their goodwill and support.
My sincere appreciation also goes to all former and serving members of the Omituntun 1.0 and Omituntun 2.0 cabinets. I acknowledge the contributions and friendship of Dr. Seun Fakorede, Hon. Mrs. Toyin Balogun, Hon. Niyi Adebisi, Hon. Mojeed Mogbonjubola, Hon. Seun Ashamu, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, Prof. Daud Sangodoyin, Hon. Segun Emmanuel Olayiwola, Hon. Demola Ojo (Ijaya) and many others whose names cannot all be mentioned.
I also appreciate the leadership of Ibadan North Local Government, including Hon. Seun Olufade, Hon. Mustapha Boluwatife, Hon. Seun Adelore and Leader Ismail Ashipa, for their cooperation and support.
My gratitude equally goes to all Local Government Chairmen and political appointees across the 33 Local Government Areas through the Chairman of ALGON, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, and Chairman-General, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, for their goodwill towards me.
To the Director-General of The GSMists, Otunba Seye Famojuro, the State Coordinator, Prince Oluyinka Tella, members of The GSMists 1.0 and 2.0, and every support group that stood with me, I remain deeply grateful for your friendship, sacrifice and commitment.
I also salute the youth leaders and political associates who regarded me as a mentor and elder brother, including Bro. Mike, Prince Falana, Alphonso O.T., Asiwaju Adekola Adeoye, Hon. Kazeem Bolarinwa, Hon. Salam Dikko (OLABAT), Bidemi UCH, and many others. May Almighty Allah continue to bless and prosper you all.
Special appreciation goes to the leaders and members of Ward 9, Ibadan North Local Government, through our Chairman, Hon. Sunmbo Omole (Born to Rule).
I sincerely apologise for having to part ways with you at this crucial period and thank you for the confidence and support you have shown me over the years.
I also offer my unreserved apology to anyone I may have offended while defending my principal, Governor Seyi Makinde, or promoting the ideals of my political party. Any offence caused was never personal, and I humbly ask for your forgiveness.
Today, after careful reflection and personal conviction, I hereby announce my voluntary resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
This decision has been taken peacefully and in good faith. It should not be interpreted as an act of hostility towards anyone. Politics is dynamic, and no political situation is permanent. I pray that Almighty Allah directs my future political journey and grants me wisdom in every decision ahead.
To everyone who has been part of my political journey, thank you for your friendship, support and love.
May God bless you all.
With gratitude and love.
Signed:
Hon. Yomi Olajide
“Ore Gomina”
Royal Umbrella
