Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Power shift signals, party unity on display as PDP leaders receive symbolic flags at Ibadan National Convention

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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday turned Ibadan into the nation’s political spotlight as the party’s National Convention opened with the presentation of symbolic flags to key leaders, a gesture interpreted as a renewed bid for internal cohesion and strategic repositioning ahead of future elections.

In a ceremony rich with political undertones, PDP National Chairman, Ambassador Ilya Damagum, received the party’s official flag, reaffirming his central role in steering the party’s direction. Convention Chairman and Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, was handed the National Convention Flag, showng his leadership over the crucial gathering.

Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed, received the Nigerian National Flag, an honour seen as reflective of his growing influence within the party hierarchy. Host Governor, Seyi Makinde, accepted the Oyo State Flag as the convention’s chief host.

Other prominent figures also received institutional flags, including Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, who was presented with the Senate Flag, and Hon. Fred Agbedi, who collected the House of Representatives Flag, signifying parliamentary alignment with ongoing party reforms.

More than 3,000 accredited delegates from across the 36 states and the FCT converged on the Oyo State capital for the convention. Accreditation commenced Saturday afternoon, signalling the start of what is expected to be a decisive voting and decision-making process for the party’s future structure and strategy.

Ibadan has witnessed heightened activity since Friday as party stalwarts, supporters and delegates trooped into the state. A pre-convention dinner hosted by Governor Makinde who welcomed PDP governors, former governors, BoT Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, and National Working Committee members.

In attendance were governors from Adamawa, Bauchi, Rivers and Zamfara, alongside former governors Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Ibrahim Dankwambo, reflecting the party’s effort to showcase unity among its top ranks.

As proceedings continue, the convention is expected to produce resolutions that will shape the PDP’s political roadmap and its readiness for upcoming national contests.