Member representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Mr. Folajimi Oyekunle has described Friday’s judgement of the Oyo State High Court which upheld the legitimacy of the Peoples Democratic Party National convention held in Ibadan.as a victory for democracy and internal party stability
Mr Oyekunle made this known while reacting to the judgement, stressing that it reinforces the principles of fair political participation within Peoples Democratic Party.
According to the federal lawmaker, the country cannot afford a one-party political system, noting that democracy thrives on diversity of ideas, ideological balance, and institutional checks and balances.
“We all cannot face the same direction politically and ideologically and expect excellent results. There must be checks and balances for democracy to have its way and remain stronger,” he stated.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his confidence in the ability of the party to remain resilient while serving the interests of party faithful and members of the public in the state and particularly within Ibadan North Federal Constituency.
He urged party members to remain calm, law-abiding, and hopeful, emphasizing that democracy is strengthened when justice is allowed to prevail through legitimate judicial processes.
Twenty-five lawmakers including the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun who were elected under the People’s Democratic Party, PDP have announced their defection to the Accord Party.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Mr. Olamide Tiamiyu, the decision was reached during a meeting, held at the Assembly Complex, Osogbo.
“The members had resigned from the PDP weeks ago. Following what they described as deep reflection and extensive consultations with supporters, political associates and key stakeholders, they resolved to align with Accord.”
The lawmakers expressed their conviction that Accord party would provide a more stable, inclusive and people-centred platform through which they could continue to serve the people of Osun State.
They explained that the move was driven by a determination to advance the collective interests of the people and to sustain development across the state.
The lawmakers urged their supporters to remain steadfast and join them as they embark on the new political chapter.
They thereafter met with Governor Ademola Adeleke and Accord Party leaders at the Government House, where they reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Governor.
A Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, has nullified the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Convention held in the city between November 15 and 16, 2025.
The court also ruled that the Caretaker Committee led by Mohammed Abdulrahman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu remains the only recognised National Working Committee, NWC, of the PDP, pending the conduct of a valid national convention.
Recall that the Kabiru Turaki faction of the PDP had filed a suit seeking recognition of the convention held in Ibadan on November 15, 2025, and validation of the NWC that emerged from the convention.
In a judgment delivered by Justice Uche Agomoh, the court also barred Turaki and other officials purportedly elected at the convention from parading themselves as national officers of the party.
The court held that the convention was conducted in flagrant disobedience to subsisting court judgments, adding that seeking judicial approval for actions taken in defiance of court orders is an exercise in futility.
The judge further declared that the PDP can only operate through the caretaker committee until a proper and lawful national convention is conducted.
The judgment follows a protracted crisis within the PDP, which held a controversial national elective convention in Ibadan in November 2025 despite existing court orders.
Earlier, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, had ordered the suspension of the PDP convention in a suit filed by former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido.
Governor Lamido had challenged the process, alleging he was denied the opportunity to purchase a nomination form to contest for the party’s chairmanship, contrary to the PDP constitution and guidelines.
Meanwhile, the Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party says it has briefed its legal counsel to immediately file an appeal and take all necessary legal steps to defend the party’s position on the matter.
This is contained in a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ini Ememobong.
The statement maintains that the Kabiru Turaki-led PDP, which emerged from the Ibadan Convention, remains legally intact and unshaken as the party awaits the final pronouncement of the appellate courts.
The party also urges its members to remain resolute and committed, stressing that there is no cause for alarm, while noting that the party’s “Rebirth Movement” remains firmly on course.
Lawmakers elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the Oyo State House of Assembly have reaffirmed their unwavering support and loyalty to Governor Seyi Makinde and the leadership of the party at both state and national levels.
This was the highlight of the PDP caucus meeting of the 10th Assembly held in Ibadan, where members reflected on the state of the party, the recent wave of defections across the country, and strategies ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Presiding over the meeting, Speaker of the House, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin, urged members to remain focused and steadfast.
“Let me begin by stating unequivocally that this is not the time to waver. This is not the time to falter. This is the time to stand firm, shoulder to shoulder, as proud ambassadors of the PDP in Oyo State and across Nigeria. The storm may rage, but our foundation should remain unshaken. Our loyalty must not be conditional. Our commitment must be firmly rooted. The PDP needs our full, complete, and unflinching loyalty now more than ever before.
“We must not be distracted by the defections. We must not be discouraged by the noise. We must not be disillusioned by the temporary setbacks. Political seasons come and go, but what endures is the strength of our convictions, the level of our loyalty and the clarity of our purpose. We are not here by accident. We are here because the people of Oyo State entrusted us with their mandate under the banner of the PDP. That trust must not be betrayed.” the Speaker said
While reaffirming the lawmakers’ confidence in the Governor, Mr. Ogundoyin urged his colleagues in the PDP to continue to stand by the Governor.
A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Mr. Kabiru Turaki has expressed confidence in reclaiming the governorship seats in Ekiti and Osun states as part of its plan to return to power at the federal level in the 2027 general elections.
Leader of the PDP faction Mr. Kabiru Turaki made the remarks during a courtesy visit by members of the group to former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta.
The delegation included former President of the Senate and Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees Senator Adolphus Wabara, former Governor of Niger State Dr. Babangida Aliyu, former Governor of Plateau State Senator Jonah Jang, and other party leaders aligned with the faction.
Speaking with journalists after the closed-door meeting, Mr. Turaki said the visit was aimed at drawing from the experience of the former president as the group works to reposition the party ahead of future elections.
He expressed optimism about the political prospects of the faction and assured supporters of improved fortunes going forward.
Preparations are in top gear ahead of the National Convention of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, scheduled to hold Saturday, 15th and Sunday,16th November, 2025
The event, expected to take place at the main bowl of the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, will host delegates from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Radio Nigeria reports that the build-up to the convention has been marked by controversy, following court rulings from Federal High Court, Abuja and Oyo State High Court. Meanwhile, The Oyo Police Command has announced comprehensive security measures ahead of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Convention.
This was made known in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Adewale Osifeso
He said the Command is working closely with other security agencies to ensure a safe, hitch-free, and peaceful convention expected to draw top political leaders, delegates, observers, media professionals, and guests from across the country.
According to the Command, a robust security architecture has been developed to manage the anticipated influx of visitors into the state. The plan includes intensified patrols, increased surveillance, and intelligence-led stop-and-search operations across major locations in Oyo State.
It states that, security presence will be significantly increased at all entry and exit points, especially around the convention venue. Public facilities such as parks, train stations, and at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport .
The Police advised residents and motorists to consider alternative routes around Adamasingba during the two-day event to avoid possible traffic disruptions.
The Command also cautioned against unauthorized gatherings, protests, or any act capable of causing public unrest before, during, or after the convention.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has commended the restructuring and expansion of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, following the conclusion of the party’s ward congresses.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor described the congresses as peaceful while the process reflected the increasing strength of the PDP in Osun.
Governor Adeleke noted that during recent unscheduled visits to several communities, he observed what he described as strong grassroots support for both the party and his administration.
He maintained that endorsements from interest groups in different sectors of the state had further boosted the PDP’s appeal.
The Governor congratulated the state leadership of the party, led by Mr. Sunday Bisi, along with other stakeholders, for their role in the exercise.
He said the party was consolidating its position ahead of the 2026 elections, while rival parties were dealing with internal disputes.
Governor Adeleke also assured residents of his administration’s continued focus on infrastructure and social development, promising sustained efforts in governance from now through 2026 and beyond.
Members of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in Ife Federal Constituency have passed vote of no confidence on the Osun State Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, former National Secretary of the party, Professor Wale Oladipo and PDP Chairman in Ife East Local Government, Mr. Olasunkanmi Makinde over alleged anti – party activities.
In a communique issued at the Constituency’s meeting on Monday in Ile-Ife , the Party berated Adewusi and Oladipo for holding meetings with nembers of the House of Representatives from Ife, Mr.Taofeek Ajilesoro who just defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
The Communique reads “that the party is dissatisfied with the actions and conduct of Mr. Bimbo Ajilesoro, Member of the House of Representatives, who defected from the party with the mandate freely given to him by our people.”
“That party leaders strongly condemn the invitation of thugs and hoodlums to the Ife Federal Constituency meeting by the Party Chairman, Mr. Olasunkanmi Makinde (a.k.a Benco), purportedly on the instructions of Professor Wale Oladipo. This meeting was earlier scheduled to be held at the residence of the Deputy governor.” The Communique stated further
They posited that actions of the three party leaders in the constituency could pose danger to the success of the party in Ile Ife.
The PDP members in Ife Federal Constituency explained that party meetings in Ife East Local Government had been put on hold by the three party leaders, thereby weakening party activities in the area.
Meanwhile, in a statement, the state chairman,PDP, Mr Sunday Bisi, had directed members and stakeholders in Ife Federal Constituency to suspend further actions capable of escalating the situation.
Mr. Bisi urged all concerned to maintain status quo in line with the conflict resolution mechanisms of the party and noted that the Party would take immediate steps, summon concerned stakeholders to a meeting with a view to resolving all issues as members of the same family.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are working relentlessly to present credible candidates to Nigerians in the 2027 elections.
Governor Makinde made this declaration while speaking with journalists in Lagos on the outcome of the PDP’s Southern Zoning Consultative Summit.
The governor who clarified that the summit is not a statutory event under the party’s constitution, assured that party leaders would continue engaging and reaching out to people for the PDP to reclaim its position.
He cited the high caliber of national and zonal leaders at the summit as a sign of the party’s seriousness.
Governor Makinde also pointed to the results of last Saturday’s bye-election as evidence of the party’s intent to rebuild.
He said the goal is to provide a more formidable opposition to the ruling party ahead of the next general election.
Governor Makinde noted that participants made far-reaching decisions at the summit and that the party will make the outcome public during its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting next Monday.
The summit attracted several prominent figures.
Attendees included Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Adolphus Wabara, and the chairman of the party’s National Zoning Committee, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri.
Other governors in attendance were Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and Peter Mba of Enugu State, who was represented by his deputy, Ifeanyi Ossai.
Former governors Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola of Osun and Emmanuel Udom of Akwa Ibom also attended.
Chief Bode George and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu were among other notable national stakeholders.
The meeting also included 12 of the 17 PDP National Assembly members and key stakeholders from across the southern states.
The summit aimed to foster unity and chart a course for the party ahead of its forthcoming national congress.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) remained the only party in Nigeria with strong institutions, assuring that the party would bounce back in the 2027 general election.
He stated this while speaking at the inauguration of the Kamorudeen Ajisafe led PDP South West Executive held at Adagunodo Party Zonal Secretariat, Old Ife Road, Ibadan.
Speaking on the rumoured mass defection of PDP stalwarts to the ruling APC, Governor Makinde assured that he remained in the PDP with his counterpart from Osun state, Senator Ademola Adeleke.
The governor urged members of the PDP to hold on to their party, hoping that the people would choose wisely in the 2027 general election.
On his part, Senator Ademola Adeleke called on the new zonal executive members to commence a renewal of structure and aggressive reconciliation with aggrieved members across the southwest and the country as a whole.
The Ogun state 2023 PDP governorship candidate for the 2023 elections, Chief Ladi Adebutu while commending the PDP governors in the South West for providing good leadership, urged members of the party to be united to get their dues.
In his acceptance message, the PDP Southwest zonal Chairman, Kamorudeen Ajisafe said his executive election reflects hope, unity, order, and progress in the party, vowing to work towards reconciliation and the election of candidates in south West and Nigeria from now beyond 2027.
The new PDP executives were elected on April 16th 2025, in Ibadan.
Governors under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, have dissociated themselves from forming a coalition with any political party ahead of the next general elections.
The chairman, PDP Governors’ Forum, Governor Bala Muhammed of Bauchi State made this known while reading the communiqué after the meeting of the forum held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.
While ruling out coalition, the forum posited that the door of the party is open to any groups or individuals interested in joining the party in its bid to take over power in 2027.
The forum, however, recommended that the Deputy National Secretary of the party act as the party secretary pending the nomination of a substantive secretary from the South East Zone.
It condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu expressing its solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The PDP Governors equally expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, particularly in Borno, Katsina, Edo, and Plateau States.
It therefore called for a strategic overhaul, advocating for a bottom-up approach that empowers sub-national entities to become frontline defenders in combating insecurity.
The forum condemned the recent attacks in Plateau State, offering condolences to affected families and communities.
In preparation for the party’s future, the forum resolved to hold a PDP Stakeholders Meeting on May 27, 2025, and to convene the party’s national convention in Kano on August 28–30, 2025 and announced the formation of two key committees: the zoning and national convention committees.
While the zoning committee is chaired by Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, with Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State as Vice Chairman, Governor Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau) will serve as its Secretary.
The National Convention Committee is to be chaired by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State; Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State is Vice Chairman, and Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State is Secretary.
Present at the meeting were Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State; Peter Mbah of Enugu and Agbu Kefas of Taraba.
Others include Dauda Lawal of Zamfara; the host, Seyi Makinde of Oyo; Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau; Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, Ademola Adeleke of Osun and Douye Diri of Bayelsa State.
While Governors Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom States were represented by their Deputy Governors.
The suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, was absent at the meeting.
Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, are currently meeting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, to deliberate on pertinent issues affecting the nation.
The meeting is currently ongoing today, Monday, 14th of April at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.
Present at the meeting are Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State; Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Agbu Kefas of Taraba State.
Others include Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State; the host, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State; Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State; Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State and Douye Diri of Bayelsa State.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State were represented by their deputy governors.
The suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara was absent at the meeting while Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke is being expected at the meeting as at the time of filing this report.
Senator Adeleke earlier attended the Gala Night held at the International Conference Centre, ICC, University of Ibadan, to welcome the PDP governors to Ibadan.
While declaring the meeting open, the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, said the issue of the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State tops the agenda.
The Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Muhammed Abba, has confirmed that six persons were killed in the chaos that happened over control of Local Government secretariats in the state.
CP Abba who spoke through the Public Relations Officer of the state police command, Mrs Yemisi Opalola disclosed this to Newsmen in Osogbo.
“The event left six people dead and many people were hospitalised. We are not happy with what happened and various groups have been called for a meeting, A series of meetings are held to ensure that this does not happen again” CP Muhammed Abba said.
While assuring that the command would ensure that perpetrators of the fatal violence would be arrested and prosecuted, CP Abba said peace is gradually returning to the state.
He added that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has directed the deployment of tactical squads from other states to Osun State to ensure peace and order.
A visit by Radio Nigeria Correspondent to Olorunda, Osogbo, Ifelodun, and Ede-South Local Government Areas Secretariats revealed that they were empty.
However, Security Operatives were noticed at strategic locations around the Council Secretariats visited.
Recall that leaders and members of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, and All Progressives Congress, APC, alongside their thugs, had clashed amid gunshots in a bid to occupy the councils.
Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, National Working Committee, NWC, Service Chiefs in Oyo State, Board of O’dua Investment Company and the Seriki Hausawa of Oyo State, have visited the governor of Oyo State, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde over the demise of his brother, Engineer Sunday Makinde.
The individuals and groups visited the governor separately.
Chief Obasanjo, who got to the Ikolaba home of Governor Makinde in the company of the Director-General of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, IITA, Dr Simeon Ehui, and his team, expressed condolences to the governor urging him to take heart and be strong.
The former president equally condoled with the extended Makinde family.
Similarly, the PDP NWC paid a condolence visit to the governor, condoling him and his family over Engineer Makinde’s demise.
Speaking on behalf of the PDP NWC, the Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, said the deceased lived a fulfilled life and left successful siblings behind.
The PDP NWC members in attendance included the National Secretary, Rt. Hon. SKE Udeokoye; National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba; National Vice Chairman, South-East, High Chief Ali Odefa; Mr Daniel Wuyigikoro and Mrs. Amina Darisam.
The Service Chiefs in Oyo State led by the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Makinde, COMPOL Fatai Owoseni (Rtd), also visited the governor, charging him to take solace in God and the fact that his brother lived a fulfilled life.
The board of Odu’a Investment Company led by its chairman, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, equally paid a visit to condole with Governor Makinde, noting that he needs people around him at this period.
Oyo State governor, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde says Nigerians do not want a one-party system.
He said this during a visit by the National Working Committee members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to commiserate with the governor on the death of 35 children during a stampede and to present the new National Secretary of the party, Rt. Hon. SKE Udeh-Okoye, to him.
Governor Makinde said Nigerians want a situation where they would be able to kick out non-performing leaders, maintaining that this would only be possible if there are alternatives.
The governor said, “The leaders in the party and members of the NWC came to commiserate with us on the unfortunate incident that happened towards the end of last year. Because of that, I cancelled my birthday celebration. Even though belated, they still felt they should come and wish me well at the beginning of a New Year.
“Yes, this New Year has given us the opportunity to talk about happenings within our party, especially the issues surrounding the rule of law.
“There is a court pronouncement on the issue of the National Secretary. My position was clear from day one and I will always follow the rule of law. This is the new National Secretary by court pronouncement. I said without mincing words that we will stay on the side of the law.
“We deliberated a little bit on what are the things ahead of us. 2025 is going to be a pivotal year for us as a party. “Four years ago, I was the secretary of the Convention Planning Committee that midwived this NWC, and four years after, we have to conduct the exercise again.
“We do know that Nigerians are waiting for the PDP to get its acts together. You can see how united the members of the NWC of our party are. There is no faction and this will give a headache to some people.
“Well, this is the beginning of a lot of good things to come in terms of party administration and commitment. I heard good things from these leaders; things that I was not even thinking deeply about. “One of them said to us that there should not be any sacrifice that would be too big to make in the interest of our party and the interest of Nigerians. We are looking forward to not a one-party state.
Nigerians don’t want a one-party state. They want alternatives. They want to be able to kick people out if they are not delivering on their promises. “So, there is commitment to ensure that Nigeria does not slide into a one-party state.”
Earlier, speaking on behalf of the NWC members, the new National Secretary of the PDP, Udeh-Okoye, commiserated with the government and people of Oyo State on the unfortunate stampede that resulted in death.
The NWC members in attendance include Amb. Taofeek Arapaja, Deputy National Chairman; Hon. Mrs Amina Bryhm, National Women Leader; Kamaldeen Ajibade SAN, National Legal Adviser; Hon. Setonji Koshoedo, Deputy National Secretary.
Also in attendance were Alhaji Ahmed Yayari, National Treasurer; Obi Okechukwu, National Auditor; Hon. Barr. Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary; Dr Woyengikuro Daniel, National Financial Secretary; Dr. Bovoa Emmanuel, National Vice Chairman PDP North-East and High Chief Ali Odefa, National Vice Chairman PDP South-East.
Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) Southwest zone has unanimously agreed to select its leaders in the zone through consensus to foster peace and unity in the party.
The Deputy National Chairman (South) of the party, and a former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, stated this while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the Southwest PDP zonal executive meeting held at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
Ambassador Arapaja noted that leaders of the party in the Southwest, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and his counterpart from Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke, have discussed and resolved to retain the positions held by states hoping that Lagos and Ogun states would agree to the terms.
He added that the decision is a strategic move to promote unity and cohesion within the party and avoid the divisions and conflicts that often accompany competitive elections.
The PDP Deputy National Chairman (South) further stated that the agreement was not imposed on the party members as they all pledged their support so as to play a positive role at the national level.
The meeting, which was hosted by Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, had in attendance former governors, both serving and former deputy governors, wives of former governors, party leaders and stakeholders.
Oyo State government says the victory of all the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP candidates in the just concluded local government elections was predictable.
In a statement issued after the announcement of the results, the state Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, noted that the outstanding performance of Governor Seyi Makinde in the last five years was the major reason why the election turned out to be one-sided.
The commissioner also attributed the election result to the quality of the candidates which the ruling party presented.
Prince Oyelade saluted the commitment of the security team, the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission, OYSIEC chairman and his team for daring to make a difference after the challenges of the past two local government elections.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde says he will not support the candidature of Peoples Democratic Party member whose age is above 50 and 52 years in the 2027 general elections.
He stated this at the Adebo Ogundoyin legislative summit with the theme: Roles of Quality Legislation in Nation Building held at the International Conference Centre, U. I, Ibadan.
Governor Makinde, while emphasizing the roles of youths in nation building, posited that Nigeria needed to catch the nation’s youths young to contribute their quota to the development of the state.
He called on the youths to dream better and be interested in the governance of the nation.
He said “I am here this afternoon the encourage the youths. If you go back to the history of Nigeria, after independence in 1960, in 1967, the person that became the maximum ruler was either 29 or 32 years of age, General Gowon. After him, during the Second Republic, former President Obasanjo retired as a general at the age of 39.
“We should dream big. People have ruled this country at a very tender age. So, for us, don’t think at 29 or 30, you are too young to rule ad I am glad because this is almost like catching them early. You have the students here and in about three years, some of you will be out there to move on. If I were you, I won’t have to start looking for work but start doing my own thing at a very early age of 24 or 25. With the kind of energy you still have, you can pull down the kingdom of Satan.
“For the Honorable Speaker himself, the opportunity came in 2018 to replace a former Speaker from his Constituency and, at that particular time, he came, I looked at him and felt he was a spoilt chid. That was why I did not support him initially. But, along the line, he became a member of the House of Assmebly.
“From the data available to us, Oyo State people will give us the opportunity because they wanted to try something totally different. We were coming from a background of no-godfather and the people wanted a change. I told him that was their mood and he agreed with money. So, I predicted that he would win. The election came and turned out to be what we predicted and he became the Speaker. I can see that Osun State is following our footstep. Our people just want us to deliver for them.
“I am glad that with Debo’s trajectory and this summit, we are moving towards the trajectory where young leaders are now thinking in terms of bridging the leadership vacuum in our country.
“And also for the students, coming around, seeing young people they can relate with in a position if authority, I think that is enough motivation for them already. It is enough to let them know that they can be responsible. For the students in oyo State, I have signed all the documents that will allow your busary to paid. So, let us just keep pushing so as to ensure that they release the money and you have it physically or I your bank account.
“The examples I gave about our leaders who led this country as Generals at the age of 29, they are still around up until this moment. But what we need to do is part of what the Honorable Speaker is doing with this type of Summit; bring leaders, look at topical issues and see how we can stimulate ad produce the next step of leaders.
“So, I am eagerly looking out for the outcome of the Summit and supporting the entrenchment of this initiative so that Nigeria can be better in terms of leadership. If you go to advanced countries, they have a culture of how leaders evolve.
“For us here, we have seen the common situation where ‘who is your father’ was the order of the day but we have been able to break that in Oyo State. My father was a nobody and the Oyo Stye people still gave me the opportunity to lead.
“This may be an happenstance but how can we become deliberate in choosing leaders? It is by exposure. Now, the leaders are being exposed and talking to themselves. I made a promise and aired it on radio last December where I said that when I am leaving in 2027, God sparing my life, I will not support anybody that is above 50 – 52 years of age. I know people will fight me because they are being excluded right now.
“We may not be able to prepare the future for the youths but we can prepare the youths for the future. So, please, don’t see this event as an opportunity to look at the issue of leadership in this country. And, in me, Seyi Makinde, the youths have an ally and we will prepare the leaders of the next generation amongst the youths.
“We have tried it in Oyo State and it stabilized the House of Assembly and the government as a whole. So, take proper advantage of this kind of gathering and ge prepared for leadership.”
The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin has expressed confidence in the victory of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP in Ibarapa East Local Government in the forthcoming Local Government election scheduled to be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
The Speaker gave the assurance at a stakeholders meeting attended by Ibarapa East PDP leaders, Party and Ward Executive members, candidates of the Party in the Local Government election as well as current leadership of the party in the Council.
The candidate of the party in the Local Government, Mr. Kazeem Owolabi Arogundade and his Vice, Mr. Olalowo Olakunle Jacob as well as all the councillorship candidates were in attendance at the meeting.
Mr. Ogundoyin said the stakeholders’ meeting was organised to strategise and assess the level of preparation of the party ahead of the Local Government election.
He added that the PDP remains the strongest political party in Ibarapa East Local Government hence victory at the poll is non-negotiable.
He said the meeting was to impress it on all stakeholders the need for everyone to work in unison for the victory of the party.
According to the Speaker, the full campaign for the candidates continues in all the major streets, communities, and villages in Eruwa and Lanlate
” PDP in Ibarapa East Local Government is ready for the Local Government election coming up on the 27th of April, 2024. The stakeholders meeting is to hear from party chieftains and members how far we have gone vis-a-vis our preparation and to also perfect our plans to win convincingly come April, 27. I want to appeal to all our party members to put aside their differences and work together for the victory of the party. We have good and sellable candidates, Hon. Kazeem Owolabi Arogundade (PDP Chairmanship Candidate) and Hon. Olalowo Olakunle Jacob (PDP Vice Chairmanship Candidate) and we shall leave no stone unturned in campaigning for them. ” Oyo Speaker stressed
Other party chieftains who spoke at the stakeholders meeting pledged their loyalty and commitment to the party.
The meeting was attended by former member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman, Ibarapa East Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Obalowo, Oyo Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss wasilat Adegoke, Hon Ojoawo, a former Oyo State House of Assembly Member, Hon Dimeji Oladapo, Senatorial chairman, Alhaji Kamorudeen Adeyemi, Party Chairman, Alhaji Sikiru Adebisi, Chairman, Oyo State Tipper, Lorry and Quarry Park Management System, Alhaji Akeem Akintola Kuso, Alhaji Kasali Morakinyo, Prince Opadeye and Prince Biodun Olabiyi among others.
Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo state have told candidates of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and those of other political parties in the forthcoming local government council election to be prepared for heavy defeat as it would not leave any stone unturned “to rescue the third tier of government from total collapse”.
The stakeholders which comprised some notable leaders, chieftains and members from across the 33 local government councils in the state spoke in similar terms at a meeting held on Sunday at the Oke-Ado State Secretariat of the Oyo APC. The meeting was at the instance of the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, and deliberations were centred on how APC candidates would emerge victorious in the poll slated for April 27, 2024.
In his opening address; the state secretary, Alhaji Tajudeen Olanite, who stood in for the Chairman, Mr Isaac Omodewu, explained that the participation of Oyo APC in the council poll was a clear indication that the party was not ready to disappoint its members and the entire citizenry on matters relating to democracy, rule of law and good governance as it was prepared to change the narrative of the party in power writing results for its candidates to win all seats.
While delivering his speech; the party’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 general election and the current Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, charged all party faithful to do extra work for the success of APC chairmanship and councillorship candidates as he was determined to do. His words; “we are mindful of the fact it is not going to be an easy thing because local government poll is usually the most difficult, especially for a party in opposition but with unity of purpose, commitment and dedication, we can do it.
“As an individual party member, I will do everything within my power to support all our candidates across the 33 LGAs and 351 Wards in the state. We shall begin to walk the talk from today by giving cash support to them. We are not even going to stop at that, we will reach out to other stakeholders in Abuja and elsewhere to mobilize them for the task at hand. I have also asked our supporters, who rejoined Oyo APC with us last December, to cooperate with the party handlers and the candidates of our party. If we are able to work together as progressive family members, victory is sure anytime.
The former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) also used the opportunity to explain the cause of the challenges facing the power sector in the country and the measures being put in place by his Ministry to tackle the problem headlong. “Electricity is so important that no serious government can toy with that sector. The problems we are facing at the moment started about 60 years ago but we would not use that as an excuse. We are doing a lot and very soon, Nigerians will a cause to smile as power supply will become stable nationwide.” Adelabu added.
In his vote of thanks, Alhaji Abu Gbadamosi who spoke on behalf of all party leaders who were present at the meeting, described Chief Adelabu’s decision to identify with the party and its candidates for the council poll as a morale booster coming at the right time. He then urged not to relent in working with others to move the party forward and also ensure that peace and harmony reign supreme with Oyo APC of the 2027 general election when it is hoped that the party would reclaim power in the state.
Party dignitaries who graced the meeting included; Engr. Dayo Lawal, Alh. Mufutau Adisa (Gbayawu), Alh. Kamorudeen Ajisafe, Chief Francis Babalola, Chief C. A Ajibade, Alh. Bello Oladeji (BAO), Hon. Adeyemi Adekola, Hon. Mojeed Olaoya, Alhaja Tinuade Adigun, Hon. Joshua Oyebamiji, Hon. Tunde Oloyede, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, Prince Ayodeji Abass-Alesinloye, Alh. Wale Sanusi among others.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remained strong and united in the state and would win the forthcoming local government elections as a result of his government’s people-oriented programmes.
He stated this in Iseyin while welcoming the senatorial candidate of the Accord Party in Oyo North Senatorial District and former member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the APC, Shina Peller, into the PDP.
Governor Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal called on new and old members of the party to work in unison to deliver candidates of the PDP in the local government polls.
The governor urged PDP members, especially in Oke-Ogun and Ogbomoso to support and welcome the defectors with a large heart for the party to continue to wax stronger, as according to him, there is enough room for everyone to operate.
He said: “I want to greet our party leaders and elders who are here at this event. Being progressive without power is zero but we want power in Iseyinland, Oke-Ogun, Ogbomoso and Oyo State in general. This is why Shina Peller is joining the party that gives power to the people.
“When you are looking for something within a particular place and you don’t get it, won’t you leave the place and go to another place where you can find it?
“I want to assure Peller that he and other followers won’t regret joining the PDP and a lot of benefits will come to them, undoubtedly.
“I want to also greet the Aseyin of Iseyinland, Kabiyesi Oba Sefiu Oyebola. There has been progress in this land during his reign. The developments that each zone in the state has witnessed since Governor Makinde came on board are remarkable and I believe we all want all of these to continue.
“I want to urge the PDP members to join hands together with Peller and his followers for the progress of our party. Let us integrate and support them as we welcome them into our fold.
“We know the local government election is forthcoming and we want the PDP to win in all the polling units.
In a remark, Mr Shina Peller pointed out that the developmental strides and the visionary leadership of Governor Makinde were the reasons for his and his followers’ defection into the PDP.
He pledged their unalloyed support for the continuity of dividends of democracy in Oke Ogun and the state in general through the governor, commending the governor for his laudable project and linking all the zones together through road infrastructure.
Earlier, the Oyo State PDP Chairman, Dayo Ogungbero, who was represented by the Deputy State Chairman, James Olukunle, described the defection of Peller and his followers as a step in the right direction, charging the new entrants to remain loyal and faithful to the party.
A High Court sitting in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital has adjourned the trial of Ogun State Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP for the 2023 general election, Chief Ladi Adebutu over allegations of vote buying during the poll until next month.
The Federal government had arraigned Chief Adebutu and nine others over allegations of vote buying during the March 18 governorship election in the state.
The Federal Government alleged that the PDP Governorship candidate ordered through his bank the issuance of N200,000 preloaded ATM verve cards with N10,000 and distributed same on the day of election across the State with the intent of inducing voters.
At the resumed hearing yesterday, the Federal Government’s counsel, Mr Rotimi Jacobs called three witnesses, including an official of a digital payment company and the witnesses were all cross-examined by the Defense Counsel, Mr Gordy Uche.
The Prosecuting Counsel later told journalists that they had plans to call more witnesses to prove the case while the defence counsel said, they would be back here to continue with the evidence.
The Presiding Judge, Justice Abiodun Akinyemi later adjourned the case until the 19th and 20th of March March for continuation of hearing.
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has appointed Amina Arong from Cross River State as the party’s new national woman leader.
In October 2023, the party announced the death of its National Woman Leader, Professor Stella Effah-Attoe.
Effah-Attoe, a member of the PDP National Working Committee, according to the family, died after a brief illness.
The party in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, on Wednesday, announced that Arong, who holds a Diploma in Banking and Finance and a B.Sc. in Accounting is to serve out the term of Effah-Attoe, who died on Sunday, October 29, 2023.
The statement read in part, “The new National Woman Leader brings on board to the national leadership of the PDP her intellectual capacity as well as experience, competence and vigour in mobilizing women for the Party at both the State and National Levels.
“The PDP notes with satisfaction. Arong long-standing commitment to the growth of the Party particularly her leading roles in the mobilisation of several Party Women and Youth groups at various levels as well as in the conduct of Party Primaries and Congresses in several parts of the country.
“The PDP congratulates and tasks the new National Woman Leader to deploy her capacity and experience in working with other members of the National Working Committee for the continuing stability, growth and success of our great party.”
The Supreme Court has reserved judgment in the appeals by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the All Progressives Congress, APC, against the election of Alex Otti.
The five-man panel led by John Okoro adjourned the matters for judgments after taking arguments from parties involved in the matter.
The Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos had dismissed the petitions by the Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate, Okey Ahiwe, and Ikechi Emenike of the APC.
The APC and PDP are asking the apex court to nullify the election of Otti of the Labour Party as Abia State Governor.
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, has declared Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the valid national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
Delivering judgment, Justice Inyang Ekwo made an order of injunction, restraining the national leadership of the PDP from appointing any person as acting national secretary when Anyanwu’s four-year tenure is still running and subsisting until Dec. 9, 2025, in line with the party’s constitution.
Justice Ekwo also declared that any meeting held or resolution reached by the party to prematurely remove or prevent Anyanwu from exercising the powers of his office would be in violation of Article 47 (1) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017), and would become null and void with no effect.
The judge also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, from recognising any purported appointment of any person as national secretary of the party whether in acting capacity or otherwise other than Anyanwu, the elected national secretary of the 1st defendant (PDP).”
The court had, on November 23, last year, stopped the PDP from removing Anyanwu as National Secretary pending the hearing and determination of the substantive matter.
