The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria’s Ekiti State has elected a new leadership following a state congress on Saturday. Hon. Lanre Omolase, a known ally of former Governor Ayodele Fayose, was declared chairman of the Ekiti State chapter, a pivotal position in the party’s efforts to reorganise in the region.
The congress, held in Ado-Ekiti and monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies, resulted in the full election of the State Working Committee. Chief Tunde Ogunleye, a former state commissioner, was elected secretary. Other key positions include Babatunde Akande as deputy chairman, Femi Philips as publicity secretary, and Lawrence Odunayo as organising secretary. The complete list also features Olugbenga Agbede as legal adviser, Mrs. Ayodele Oluwatoyin Bosede as women leader, Banji Femi as youth leader, and various roles for financial secretary, treasurer, auditor, and the three senatorial district chairmen.
The exercise was overseen by a National Caretaker Working Committee delegation that included Bisi Kolawole, the party’s 2022 governship candidate in Ekiti. Kolawole acknowledged the PDP’s recent internal challenges but assured members that national consultations among leaders and stakeholders are underway. He stated these talks aim to restore unity, strengthen internal democracy, and rebuild member confidence nationwide.
Addressing the new executives, Kolawole stressed the critical need for discipline, unity, and commitment to PDP ideals to restore the party’s strength as a major political force. He urged loyalty and collective work towards progress.
In his acceptance speech, Chairman Omolase called for renewed commitment from all members, assuring that the party would overcome its difficulties. He pledged to lead with a “fear of God” and collaborate with all stakeholders to recover the PDP’s “lost ground” in Ekiti State.
The successful conduct of the congress marks a concrete step in the PDP’s national renewal agenda, directly impacting its strategy to regain electoral relevance in a state that has oscillated between the PDP and the rival All Progressives Congress in recent election cycles. The performance of this newly mandated executive committee will be closely watched as the party prepares for future contests in the southwest region.
