A professor from the University of Ibadan has been elected chairman of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, aligning with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. Professor Abdulrahman Akinoso’s election follows a congress held in Ibadan on Saturday, which also saw the selection of 38 other executive members for the party group.
The congress, conducted at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, was observed by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the police, and other security agencies. An electoral committee supervised the process, chaired by Prince Diran Odeyemi with Dr. Phillips Adeniyi as secretary. The newly elected executives include Dr. Abiola Olaonipekun as Secretary, Alhaja Latifah Latifu as Women Leader, and Mr. A. Adeleke as Youth Leader.
In his inaugural address, Professor Akinoso called for unity among party members, urging them to set aside internal disagreements. He emphasized the executive’s core responsibilities: coordinating party activities, ensuring member harmony, and securing electoral victory. He directed attention to upcoming political timelines, stating the faction would align with INEC’s 2027 general election schedule and commence e-membership registration as mandated by the PDP National Caretaker Committee.
“A political party is only relevant and benefits its members if it wins the election. This is our goal,” Akinoso said, adding that resources must be concentrated on party promotion through consultation and dialogue.
The event underscores the ongoing organizational efforts within the PDP’s Oyo State structure, particularly among factions aligned with key national figures. The presence of INEC and security agents highlighted the formal nature of the exercise, intended to establish a legitimate executive ahead of future electoral cycles. The new leadership’s immediate focus will be the nationwide membership drive and strategizing for the 2027 elections, reflecting the party’s broader preparations for the next electoral contest.
