From Priscilla Ediare, Ado-Ekiti
Newly elected local government chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State have committed to promoting unity and advancing the party’s interests. The pledge followed the PDP’s Local Government congress held on May 7, 2025, across 16 Local Government Areas, where 15 chairmen were elected, though the congress in Ikere Local Government was disrupted.
At a stakeholders’ meeting at the party secretariat in Ado-Ekiti, the 15 chairmen, represented by Efon Local Government Chairman Oluyemi Ajanaku, hailed the May 7 congress as a step toward repositioning the PDP for future electoral success. “We reaffirm our dedication to advancing our party’s objectives,” Ajanaku said, urging members to unite for the upcoming state congress. “We call upon all leaders to reunite and ensure the successful conduct of the forthcoming state congress which marks the final stage of our congresses.”
The chairmen expressed gratitude to the party’s national leadership, including Acting National Chairman Senator Umar Damagum and the National Working Committee, for their support. They also commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, electoral panel chairman Hon. Eddy Olafeso, Ekiti State caretaker chairman Hon. Dare Adeleke, and other leaders for ensuring a successful congress.
Addressing the disrupted Ikere congress, the chairmen urged stakeholders to resolve differences swiftly. “We urge all stakeholders in Ikere Local Government to address and resolve their differences promptly so that the outstanding local government congress can take place without further delays,” they said. Despite a court order on May 6, 2025, by Justice E.B. Omotoso halting the congresses, the PDP proceeded, prompting controversy.
Looking ahead, the chairmen vowed to secure victory in the 2026 governorship election. “As we look forward, our primary goal is to secure victory in the 2026 governorship in Ekiti State. We remain steadfast in our resolve to reclaim power and serve the citizens of our state,” they said.