The Chairman of the Ward Congress of the Wike-led faction of the the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, Prince Diran Odeyemi, has said the party’s ongoing ward congresses across the state have been peaceful and orderly despite attempts by some individuals to disrupt the process.
Odeyemi, who spoke with journalists in Ibadan, maintained that the exercise, which is the first phase of the party’s internal democratic process, has proceeded smoothly in all wards, describing reports from across the state as encouraging.
“We are currently conducting our congresses across the wards in the state, and everything is going smoothly. The process has been orderly and peaceful,” he said.
He, however, alleged that certain elements, whom he described as acting outside the party’s recognised structure, had made attempts to create confusion. According to him, a minor disruption occurred in one area where a party member was reportedly attacked, but security agencies promptly intervened.
“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 insisted that the congress being conducted is by what he termed the authentic leadership of the party, which he said is recognised by the judiciary. He argued that only leaders affirmed by court judgments have the legal authority to speak for the party.
“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 some individuals allegedly not recognised by law were still being referred to as party officials, stressing that they were not part of the legitimate structure.
The PDP chieftain explained that the ward congress would be followed by congresses at the local government and state levels, culminating in the party’s national convention scheduled to hold later this month.
“We are progressing gradually and peacefully. By the grace of God, we will hold our national convention as planned,” he said.
Calling for calm among party members, Odeyemi urged stakeholders to avoid confrontation and remain committed to democratic principles.
“There is no need for violence. We will continue to conduct our affairs calmly and in line with the party’s constitution. At the end of the process, the results will speak for themselves,” he added.
