Wike-Backed Group Defies PDP Leadership, Installs New Ondo Executives
A fresh twist has emerged in the leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as a rival faction conducted a parallel state congress in Ondo State and elected its own executives despite opposition from the recognised leadership. The faction held its congress in Akure on Tuesday, where Olaniyi Ogungbuji emerged as state chairman, while Yagba Timilehin was elected secretary.
Congress Proceedings and Official Statements
The exercise was reportedly monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as well as personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force. Chairman of the Ondo 2026 Congress Committee for wards, local governments, and the state, Adebiyi Abiodun-Philips, described the exercise as a step toward unity within the party.
He maintained that reconciliation efforts at both state and national levels had resolved prior disputes. According to him, the PDP has moved beyond its internal divisions, urging members to prioritise collective interests over personal ambitions. He added that the party is now focused on rebuilding its strength ahead of future elections.
New Leadership's Vision and Rejection by Recognised Executive
In his acceptance speech, Ogungbuji emphasised the need to reposition the party for the 2027 general elections, calling on members to set aside their differences and work towards unity and mobilisation. He said the new executive would focus on redefining the party’s direction in Ondo State and enhancing its competitiveness.
Other officials elected at the congress include Akinwamide Adedeji (Deputy Chairman), Alake Olumuyiwa (Treasurer), Barrister Clement Adefemi (Legal Adviser), Akintemi Akinduyite (Financial Secretary), and Sadiq Fatai (Publicity Secretary), alongside 32 other executive members.
However, the Dupe Aisida-led executive has rejected the factional congress, describing it as illegitimate. The state Publicity Secretary of the recognised executive, Wande Ajayi, dismissed the exercise as a “charade” with no constitutional backing.
Ajayi questioned the validity of the congress, arguing that no legitimate state congress could be conducted without duly held ward and local government congresses. He insisted that the recognised party structure in Ondo had already completed its congresses in line with party guidelines.
Implications for PDP Unity
The development highlights the lingering divisions within the PDP, despite ongoing reconciliation efforts at the national level. This incident underscores the challenges the party faces in achieving internal cohesion and preparing effectively for upcoming electoral contests.
