The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria’s South-West region has reelected Barrister Kamorudeen Ajisafe as its zonal chairman. Similarly, Alhaja Bose Adedibu, the widow of a former prominent party figure, was also reelected as the PDP’s South-West women leader. Obagunwa Muyiwa retained his position as the South-West Secretary of the PDP.
These reelections, along with the election of other zonal executive members, took place at the South-West Zonal Congress held in Ibadan, Oyo State. Ajisafe received 661 votes in the election where 22 positions were contested. Other elected officials include Adeyemo Adetunji (zonal treasurer), Yaya Adeleke (zonal financial secretary), and Atofarati Olusanya (zonal publicity secretary).
The election was supervised by former Akwa Ibom State governor, Udom Emmanuel, who headed the Electoral Committee, and was observed by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Key figures such as Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the PDP’s National Deputy Chairman (South) Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja, Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke, and the PDP’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu, led their respective state delegates to the congress. Other prominent party leaders from the South-West, including Chief Olabode George (Lagos), were also present.
In his acceptance speech, Ajisafe pledged to serve the party diligently and uphold the aspirations of its leaders in the zone. He also expressed his commitment to advancing the party’s interests and predicted that the PDP would gain governorship in three more South-West states before the current terms of office expire.
Governor Makinde, in his opening remarks, highlighted the unity within the South-West PDP, contrasting it with past divisions. He presented the zonal congress as a model for the party’s upcoming national convention, showcasing the region’s democratic practices.
Governors Adeleke and former Deputy National Chairman Chief George lauded the organization of the election, emphasizing the South-West’s unity. Chief George announced that this congress would be his final public engagement, though he would remain a PDP member.