Gubernatorial Aspirant Saheed Oladele Resigns From APC Citing Youth Exclusion From Decision Making

Chief Saheed Oladele resigns from the APC in Oyo State, citing the party's refusal to include young people in decision making. Read his full resignation details.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 9:32 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Politics Nigeria

Prominent Gubernatorial Contender Exits Oyo State Chapter

Chief Saheed Oladele, a significant figure eyeing the 2027 governorship race under the All Progressives Congress, has announced his immediate departure from the party. Oladele, who originates from the Ibadan North Local Government Area, confirmed his resignation on Saturday in the state capital. The move represents a major shift in the political landscape of Oyo State as the party begins to navigate the early stages of the next electoral cycle, losing a candidate who claimed to have worked extensively on fostering internal unity and strengthening party structures.

Resignation Letter Highlights Systematic Youth Marginalization

In a formal letter addressed to the APC chairman in Ward 4, Ibadan North, Oladele expressed deep frustration with the party's current trajectory regarding younger politicians. He asserted that while he had served the APC diligently since its inception, recent developments suggest a lack of willingness to allow young people a meaningful seat at the decision,making table. Oladele argued that the party appears to prefer utilizing younger members as instruments of the political machine rather than granting them genuine influence over policy and strategy.

Strategic Vision for Intergenerational Political Bridge

The departing aspirant emphasized that his political goal remains serving as a vital link between the older and younger generations. Oladele noted that his contributions to the APC were not merely driven by personal ambition but by a desire to build bridges across diverse interests for the progress of Oyo State. He suggested that the current environment within the Oyo APC stands in direct contrast to his vision for an inclusive future, prompting his decision to seek a platform more aligned with his values of youthful empowerment.