The Media and Communications Office of Chief (Dr) Peter Taiwo Ogundeji, popularly known as APATA, hereby announces his decision to step aside from the Osun West Senatorial District Primary Election scheduled for Monday, 18th May, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general election, in demonstration of his loyalty to progressive ideals, respect for party leadership, and unwavering commitment to the unity and future of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
This decision followed wide consultations with the leader of the party in Osun State, the former Governor of Osun State and Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola, respected elders within his political family, members of the APATA Political Movement, and other critical stakeholders whose opinions he holds in very high esteem.
Consequently, Chief Ogundeji has resolved to put on hold his aspiration for the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing Osun West Senatorial District in the 2027 general election under the banner of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
This decision was not taken out of weakness, fear, or discouragement, but out of conviction, loyalty, discipline, and profound respect for his political father, leader, mentor, and a man whose leadership he has continued to admire over the years, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, and immediate past Governor of Osun State, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola.
Chief Ogundeji strongly believes that party unity, loyalty to leadership, and collective interest must always prevail over personal ambition. According to him, power attained without honour may satisfy the moment, but sacrifice made for peace and stability builds the future.
He remains firmly persuaded that no genuine sacrifice made for the growth of a political family is ever lost, stressing that the seed of loyalty always bears fruit in due season, because history never forgets those who choose the path of honour when it matters most.
He therefore expressed deep appreciation to his family, political movement, leaders, elders, associates, supporters, and friends across Osun West Senatorial District for their sacrifices, encouragement, prayers, and unwavering support throughout the period of consultation and political engagement.
Chief Ogundeji particularly appreciated members of the APATA Foundation, APATA Political Movement, ward coordinators, grassroots mobilisers, loyal supporters across all wards and local governments, friends within and outside politics, members of the media, and the countless individuals and groups who stood solidly with him throughout the journey.
He acknowledged the emotional weight of the moment and the expectations of many supporters who invested their time, energy, resources, and hopes into the aspiration, assuring them that the bond shared with them goes far beyond politics and electoral contests.
Chief Ogundeji further assured all associates and supporters that the empowerment programmes under his leadership would continue uninterrupted. He stated clearly that individuals currently undergoing apprenticeship programmes would not be abandoned, while scholarship schemes for students, health outreaches, and other humanitarian services to the people would also continue.
According to him, true leadership is not only tested during moments of victory, but even more during moments of sacrifice and transition.
He prayed that Almighty God would heal every wound the political struggle may have caused his supporters, strengthen their hearts, reward their sacrifices, and preserve them for greater days ahead, while reaffirming his deep love and eternal gratitude to all who stood firmly by him.
Chief Ogundeji also maintained that though he may be stepping aside from the contest, he is not stepping away from service, loyalty, or progressive politics, reiterating his unwavering belief in the enduring principles of justice, inclusion, discipline, development, and people centred leadership.
He pledged to continue contributing towards strengthening the party, deepening internal harmony, mobilising the people, and ensuring greater victories for the progressive family in Osun State and Nigeria at large.
While expressing gratitude to God Almighty for strength and wisdom throughout the period, Chief Ogundeji stated that patience is not weakness, sacrifice is never failure, and loyalty to a cause remains one of the greatest virtues in leadership.
He added that sometimes the strongest men are not those who fight endlessly to remain in the race, but those who possess the wisdom and courage to preserve the house for tomorrow.
Chief Ogundeji concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the progressive ideals he has always cherished and defended, while expressing confidence that the future belongs to those who build patiently, sacrifice honourably, and remain steadfast even in difficult moments.
He further shared the following reflections:
“The future belongs not only to those who aspire, but also to those who understand when unity must come before self.”
“True progressives do not destroy the roof because of a temporary disagreement within the house.”
Chief Ogundeji prayed for divine guidance upon the party, the people of Osun West Senatorial District, and Osun State at large, while thanking all supporters once again for their loyalty, prayers, and steadfastness.