By Our Correspondent

National News – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State witnessed a significant development as the faction aligned with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, inaugurated its new executive team on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

The state congress was held in Akure, Ondo State, with security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) overseeing the process.

At the congress, Mr. Olaniyi Ogungbuji emerged as the factional chairman, while Yagba Timilehin was elected state secretary.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Congress Committee, Mr. Adebiyi Abiodun-Philips, urged members to prioritise party unity over personal interests.

He emphasised that the factional crisis at the national and state levels had been resolved and welcomed former members from other parties to return.

Ogungbuji, in his acceptance speech, highlighted the immediate goal of repositioning the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He called on members to set aside internal disputes, mobilise party membership, and work collectively for electoral success.

“We are here to redirect the future of PDP in Ondo State and Nigeria, ensuring meaningful results in upcoming elections,” he said.

Other executives elected include Akinwamide Adedeji as deputy chairman, Alake Olumuyiwa as state treasurer, Barrister Clement Adefemi as legal adviser, Akintemi Akinduyite as financial secretary, Sadiq Fatai as publicity secretary, and 32 additional members.

However, the Dupe Aisida-led PDP executive rejected the factional congress.

State Publicity Secretary Mr. Wande Ajayi described the gathering as a “charade” lacking legitimacy, questioning the delegates and procedural validity.

He insisted that all official processes in Ondo State had been concluded under the recognised state leadership.

The development underscores continuing power tussles within the PDP and raises questions about party cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.

How the two factions reconcile remains pivotal for the party’s future in Ondo and nationally.