Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ekiti State on Saturday said efforts have begun to rebuild the party and restore unity after internal problems weakened its structure.
The assurance was given in Ado-Ekiti by Bisi Kolawole, a member of the PDP National Caretaker Working Committee and the party’s governorship candidate in the 2022 election, during the state congress where new party officials were elected.
The congress produced Lanre Omolase, known to be close to former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, as the new chairman of the party in the state. The exercise was observed by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission and security agencies to ensure the process was conducted properly.
During the same congress, a former commissioner in the state, Tunde Ogunleye, was chosen as the party’s secretary. Other members elected into the State Working Committee include Babatunde Akande as deputy chairman, Femi Philips as publicity secretary, Lawrence Odunayo as organising secretary and Olugbenga Agbede as legal adviser.
Ayodele Oluwatoyin Bosede was elected women leader, while Banji Femi emerged youth leader. Gani Bakare became financial secretary, Anike Folasade was chosen as treasurer and Ajayi Joseph was elected auditor. The congress also produced Sunday Olowolafe, Adeniyi Adefemi and Segun Olatunji as senatorial chairmen for Ekiti South, Central and North.
Kolawole told delegates at the congress that the party had faced internal disagreements in recent times but said steps were already being taken to repair the damage and restore unity. He explained that leaders at the national level were working with stakeholders across the country to strengthen the party and rebuild the confidence of members.
He also said discussions were ongoing among party leaders to find ways to move the PDP forward and prepare it for future political contests. According to him, cooperation among members and loyalty to the party would help restore its strength and ensure it remains an active force in the country’s political space.
Kolawole advised the newly elected officials in Ekiti to work together and remain committed to the goals of the party. He also urged them to respect senior members of the party and maintain discipline while carrying out their responsibilities.
Speaking after his emergence, Omolase called on party members in the state to remain dedicated to the PDP and work for its progress.
He promised to lead the party with fairness and guide it toward regaining lost ground in Ekiti State. According to him, unity among members would help the party recover from its challenges and prepare for future elections.