Confusion deepened within the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday as the Nyesom Wike-led faction in Oyo State proceeded with ward congresses despite a directive by the party’s national leadership that no congress was being conducted anywhere in the country.
The National Chairman of the PDP, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), had earlier issued a statement distancing the party from any congress, warning members and the public to disregard information suggesting otherwise.
He described the claims as false and alleged that they were being circulated by expelled members of the party, whom he accused of working in the interest of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
However, in Oyo State, members loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, went ahead with ward congresses across the state, insisting that the exercise was legitimate and backed by court-recognised leadership.
Chairman of the Ward Congress Committee in the state and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Prince Diran Odeyemi, said the process was peaceful and orderly despite alleged attempts to disrupt it.
“We are currently conducting our congresses across the wards in the state, and everything is going smoothly. The process has been orderly and peaceful,” Odeyemi said.
He claimed that there was an isolated incident in which a party member was reportedly attacked but said security agencies promptly intervened to restore calm.
“That incident did not stop the congress from going on. Security agencies were up to the task, and the process continued without major issues,” he stated.
Odeyemi maintained that the faction conducting the congresses represented the authentic leadership of the party as recognised by the judiciary.
“As it stands, the court recognises the authentic leadership and the duly acknowledged secretary of the party. Those recognised by the judiciary are the legitimate voices of the party,” he said.
He expressed surprise that individuals not recognised by law were still being referred to as party officials, stressing that they were not part of the legitimate structure.
According to him, the ward congress is the first phase of the party’s internal democratic process, which would be followed by local government and state congresses, culminating in a national convention later this month.
“We are progressing gradually and peacefully. By the grace of God, we will hold our national convention as planned,” Odeyemi added, urging members to avoid violence and remain committed to democratic principles.
At Ward 11 in Ibadan North Local Government Area, PDP leader Wakili Oyeleke confirmed that voting and the election of party leaders were ongoing.
“We are holding the convention and electing party leaders. We have given them cards and we are returning the cards to Abuja,” he said.
The parallel positions have further exposed deepening cracks within the opposition party, raising concerns over internal cohesion as preparations intensify for its proposed national convention.
