A prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Oyo State, Agba’Akin Benedict Akika, has intensified grassroots mobilisation for the party with a renewed call for unity, voter participation and loyalty to Governor Seyi Makinde ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Akika, popularly known as “Benee,” made the call on Sunday during the 2026 New Year Get-Together of the Omituntun Benedict Forum (OBF), held at Omituntun House, Akobo–Olorunda, in Lagelu Local Government Area of Ibadan.
At the well-attended gathering, the PDP stalwart reaffirmed his unwavering support for Governor Makinde, whom he described as the pillar and driving force of the party in Oyo State.
He said the governor’s leadership and performance in office had continued to strengthen the PDP’s popularity and structure across the state.
As part of efforts to deepen democratic participation, Akika announced that he would personally sponsor daily transportation for 20 members of the Omituntun Benedict Forum to enable them to take part in the ongoing Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
According to him, the initiative is aimed at ensuring that party members and eligible citizens are fully prepared to exercise their civic rights in future elections, stressing that voter registration remains the foundation of electoral success.
“Our focus is on preparation, mobilisation and unity. Politics is not only about elections; it is about consistent engagement with the people,” Akika said.
He urged OBF members and PDP faithful to remain active at the ward level by attending meetings and party activities, noting that sustained grassroots involvement would position the party strongly ahead of 2027.
Akika also dismissed speculations about internal crisis or disunity within the PDP in Oyo State, describing such claims as distractions sponsored by political opponents. He maintained that the party remains united, stable and focused on consolidating its achievements.
“The PDP in Oyo State is intact. There is no crisis. Our strength lies in our unity and the confidence the people have in the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde,” he added.
The event attracted several top party figures, including the Executive Chairman of Lagelu Local Government Area, Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen, and the member representing Ibadan North II Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebayo Babajide Gabriel.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Agency for Youth Development, Falana Adebowale Adebayo, praised Governor Makinde’s youth-focused policies, particularly in employment, infrastructure and youth empowerment. He described the governor as “a father of the youth,” assuring that young people in the state remain solidly behind his leadership.
Also speaking, Hon. Kamorudeen Mudashiru commended Akika for his consistency in grassroots engagement and philanthropy, describing the Omituntun Benedict Forum as a model of people-oriented political organisation.
The New Year Get-Together featured goodwill messages, music, dance and entertainment, as thousands of OBF members gathered in a festive atmosphere that reflected unity, optimism and renewed commitment to the PDP’s vision for Oyo State.
