By Tomi Lala
A major political tremor has hit Senator Ajagunla Olubiyi Fadeyi, the lawmaker representing Osun Central Senatorial District, following his controversial defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a swift response, three of his top political aides have tendered their resignations, citing loss of confidence and dissatisfaction with his decision to abandon the party on whose platform he was elected.
The resignations submitted by his Chief of Staff, Special Adviser on Media, and Media Assistant, mark a significant internal fallout within Senator Fadeyi’s camp and signal growing discontent among close associates.
In a formal resignation letter dated July 21, 2025, Otunba Tunde Badmus, the outgoing Chief of Staff, adopted a more diplomatic tone in his resignation letter, also dated July 21, 2025. While not openly criticizing the Senator’s political move, Badmus noted it was time to step aside and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to serve under your leadership. I am proud of the milestones we achieved together during my time in office,” Badmus wrote, extending best wishes for Fadeyi’s continued political journey.
The resignation of Adeniran Babatunde Shakirulli, who served as Media Assistant, was far more direct and critical.
In a strongly-worded letter, Shakirulli accused Senator Fadeyi of betrayal, political opportunism, and neglect of his aides.
“This resignation is not merely a withdrawal, it is a clear and deliberate rejection of what your office has come to represent: betrayal, self-interest, vindictiveness, and a blatant disregard for loyalty,” Shakirulli stated.
He also alleged that Senator Fadeyi had failed to pay his aides for over ten months, describing it as “a disturbing disregard for those who worked tirelessly to shape and protect your public image.”
Also, Oladayo S. Popoola, stepped down as Special Adviser on Media.
He attributed his departure to “deep personal reflection” and expressed his unwavering loyalty to the PDP and the re-election campaign of Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke.
“While I respect your right to political realignment, I cannot in good conscience follow that path.
“My loyalty remains with the PDP, a party that gave you and many of us the platform to rise, serve, and make an impact,” Popoola wrote.
Senator Fadeyi’s defection to the APC has been met with widespread criticism within Osun PDP circles. Elected in 2023 on the PDP platform, his departure is seen by party loyalists as a betrayal.
