Wike-backed PDP faction elects Oyo chairman

The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has elected Abdulrahman Akinoso, a lecturer in the Department of Food Technology, University of Ibadan, as its Oyo State chairman.

Akinoso was elected during the party’s state congress held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, at the weekend.

The congress, held amid heavy security presence, began around 12:30pm, with all executive members emerging through affirmation.

Other elected officers include Abiola Olaonipekun (Secretary), Latifah Latifu (Woman Leader) and A. Adeleke (Youth Leader).

Members of the committee were Awoniyi Tolulope, Babatunde Gbadamosi, Stephanie Oyechere, Yusuf Abidakun and Olumide Aguda, while Phillips Adeniyi served as secretary.

The congress had in attendance representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

In his inaugural remarks, Akinoso said the immediate focus of the party would be preparations for the 2027 general elections.

He urged members to set aside internal differences and strengthen the party through unity and membership mobilisation.

The chairman also emphasised the importance of the party’s upcoming e-membership registration exercise, which he said would expand the PDP’s grassroots base across the state.

“Party executives must focus on coordinating party activities, promoting harmony among members and ensuring victory at the polls.

“Our immediate assignment is to key into the timetable for the 2027 general elections as released by INEC. As directed by the National Caretaker Committee of the party, our e-membership registration will commence next week, and we must fully participate in the membership drive.

“We must set aside intra-party differences and concentrate our resources on promoting the party. Through consultations and dialogue, we will work together to achieve victory in future elections,” he said.