A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Bashorun Akinwale Akinwole, popularly known as Wolekanle, has congratulated the newly elected National Executive Committee of the party, expressing confidence that their emergence will strengthen internal democracy and reposition the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement on Sunday, Wolekanle who is also the chairman of Oyo State local government service commission hailed the successful conduct of the 2025 National Convention held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, describing it as a triumph for transparency, unity, and the collective resolve of party members across Nigeria. He noted that the peaceful, well-organized process reinforced the PDP’s readiness for national leadership.
He particularly applauded Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his unwavering commitment to due process and fairness throughout the convention. According to him, Makinde’s firm stand against political manipulation will remain a landmark in the PDP’s democratic evolution and a testament to his integrity and courage.
The convention, which attracted over 3,000 accredited delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, produced Dr. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN) as National Chairman and Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja as National Secretary. Other elected officials include Hon. Yomi Awoniyi as Deputy National Chairman (South), Senator Suleiman Adokwe as Deputy National Chairman (North), Hon. Onofiok Luke as National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Nnenna Ukeje as National Women Leader, Hon. Sani Jaji as National Youth Leader, and Chief Olusola Akanmode as National Treasurer, among others—an array Wolekanle described as “capable, tested, and nationally accepted.”
He urged the new leadership to consolidate on the unity demonstrated in Ibadan by strengthening the party’s internal structures and promoting discipline, cohesion, and ideological clarity. Wolekanle added that Nigerians are looking up to the PDP for direction, hoping the new exco will bring fresh energy and strategic focus as the 2027 elections draw nearer.
Wolekanle further called on party members to rally behind the new executives, emphasizing reconciliation and collective effort as essential pathways to reclaiming power. According to him, the Ibadan convention has provided a strong foundation on which the PDP must build.
He reaffirmed his belief that with Governor Makinde’s exemplary leadership, a revitalized national executive, and unwavering support from party stakeholders nationwide, the PDP is now better positioned to reassert itself as a formidable force capable of providing Nigerians with a credible and united alternative in 2027.
