No fewer than four leaders have signified their intentions to contest for the chairmanship position of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ekiti State in the forthcoming state congress of the party.
Nigerian Tribune gathered that a former acting governor of the state, Tunji Odeyemi; ex-senatorial candidate for Ekiti North in the 2023 general election, Funso Ayeni have obtained their nomination forms for the chairmanship position for the congresses scheduled to start from July 27, 2024.
Also in the race are a former acting chairman and current deputy chairman, Lanre Omolase and the party’s legal officer, Sunday Olowolafe.
While Odeyemi, Olowolafe and Omolase are from the southern senatorial district, Ayeni is from the northern district.
Main stakeholders in the party have been divided over which of the zones should produce the next chairman of Ekiti PDP.
The state chairman of the party, Alaba Agboola called on the stakeholders to embrace peace and be united towards the success of the congresses.
Agboola, in a statement on Sunday, explained that leaders and members should work together to ensure that the PDP reclaims power in 2026.
He said: “The time is now for us to reconcile our differences and join hands to ensure a seamless and successful congress that will chart the future of our party.
“The current political landscape in our country presents a unique opportunity for our party to regain the trust and support of the people. However, this is the only way we can take the government back and it is by prioritizing the interests of the party above personal ambitions.
“I urge all PDP members and stakeholders in Ekiti State to set aside personal grievances and work collectively for the greater good of our party. Our unity is paramount, and the congress will play a crucial role in shaping our path forward.
“Let us embrace the spirit of cooperation and make this congress a testament to our commitment to progress.
“Together, we can move the party forward and achieve our collective goals. Let us stand united, embrace peace, and work tirelessly towards a seamless congress that will pave the way for our success both at the state and national levels.”
