Oluwole Oke, a member of the House of Representatives, has publicly expressed his frustration that he is being undermined and treated like an enemy by the Osun State Government and the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite his longstanding loyalty and service to the party.
Speaking in a video message addressed to his constituents and the people of Osun State, Oke, who represents the Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, recounted his commitment to the PDP since 1998, stating that he had never once defected, even during times of mass exodus by party leaders.
“I’m a member of PDP and I’ve been a member from day one, since 1998. I have never defected. Even when all the leaders who had been governors and senators left the party, I stayed behind because of my loyalty”, he said.
Read also: Suswan criticises PDP governors over rejection of merger talks
The lawmaker noted that he not only remained steadfast, but also played a pivotal role in sustaining the party’s structure in Osun State including financially throughout his 12 years as a member.
“I nurtured, financed the party to greatness. For clarity of purpose, for 12 years, I stayed behind in this party, and I nurtured the party,” he said.
He also recalled his support for the incumbent governor during his bid for a senatorial seat, stating that he “offended so many people just because I wanted our party to capture power in the state.”
However, Oke lamented that rather than being acknowledged , he is now perceived as an enemy within the very political fold he helped sustain.
“The purpose of nurturing this party is to enable my followers, my constituents, to also benefit from government; to become councilors, to become chairman of councils, to become, to become secretary to the local government, and all that. That’s the purpose of my endurance, supporting the government. But what do I get in return? I’ve seen invaders who never knew how we started all this process, you know, and spewing all sorts of stories.
Read also: PDP will come to an end if Atiku gets presidential ticket, says Bode George
“Today, what is the story? I’m the enemy of the government. I’m the enemy of the party. And unfortunately, the government of the state is believing them, and that is the painful aspect of it”, he cried.
In his concluding remarks, the representative urged his supporters and constituents to counsel him on the way forward as he reflects on the treatment he has received from the party he has served for decades.
“I want all of you to advise me in a situation where I’m not trusted, where your opinion does not count, where your advice are not taken into consideration, and where you’re undermined. Please advise me what you think I should do. God bless all of you,” he said.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
