A senior figure in Nigeria’s opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Funmilayo Ogun, has dismissed claims that the rival African Democratic Congress (ADC) could eclipse the PDP’s influence ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 gubernatorial race. Speaking during a strategic meeting with supporters in the state capital, Ado-Ekiti, on Wednesday, the governorship aspirant asserted that ADC’s recent gains were neither sustainable nor a credible threat to the PDP’s revival.
Ogun, a former Ekiti State Commissioner for Works, addressed concerns about recent defections to the ADC, stating that dissidents would likely rejoin the PDP. “The ADC is a latecomer with no real footing here. Our members are loyal at the grassroots, and our party remains vibrant,” she said, emphasizing that PDP leaders had resolved protracted internal disputes. She singled out the resolution of a national-level conflict over the party’s Secretary position, held by Senator Samuel Anyanwu, as a turning point.
“Every organization faces challenges—what’s crucial is managing them,” Ogun noted, crediting the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) for fostering unity and addressing state-level issues like delayed congresses. She added that lingering disputes in Ekiti would conclude without disrupting primaries scheduled by Nigeria’s electoral body, INEC, and urged members to remain loyal.
Ogun, who has spent two years mobilizing support across Ekiti’s 16 local government areas, expressed confidence in securing the PDP nomination and winning the 2026 election. “By this time next year, I aim to be governor,” she said, framing her campaign as a grassroots-driven effort. Regarding the ADC’s emergence, she argued that Nigeria’s political landscape rewards established parties, particularly with elections months away. “Sudden traction for a new party is unrealistic,” she said.
The PDP aspirant’s remarks reflect broader dynamics in Nigerian state politics, where shifting alliances and interparty defections are common. Analysts note Ekiti’s history of tight electoral contests, with the PDP seeking to reclaim power after losing the 2022 governorship to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Ogun’s focus on reconciliation and local engagement underscores the party’s strategy to rebuild ahead of 2026, though the ADC’s growing presence—bolstered by PDP defectors—remains a variable in the race.
Closing her address, Ogun reaffirmed her resolve: “This journey ends with victory—for our party and Ekiti’s future.” Her confidence highlights the PDP’s bid to reassert dominance in a state where political fortunes often hinge on grassroots loyalty and timely crisis resolution.
