Uncertainty surrounds today’s ward congresses of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government alongside all other wards in Lagos State, where 11 ward chairmen are expected to be elected in Ajeromi Ifelodun, amid fears of a repeat of the parallel exercises that marred the party’s 2023 congresses in the area.
Strong indications suggest that some influential caucuses may be scheming to hijack the process, even as the majority of members push for the ratification of the existing ward chairmen who remained in the PDP despite recent waves of defections to rival parties.
At the time of this report, no official communication had been released on the time and venue of the congresses, further fueling suspicion of factional maneuvering. Attempts to reach the LGA chairman, Apostle Mathew Abougunde for clarification were unsuccessful.
However, popular opinion believes that, the ward congress provides a fresh opportunity to strengthen structures and foster cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections as the exercise comes at a crucial time for the party especially as it has in recent times faced internal challenges and witnessed the defection of some members to other political parties, and that is the very reason why there have been appeals for the reaffirmation of experienced ward chairmen who have remained committed to the PDP. According to some members, this approach would help consolidate the party and position it strongly against political opponents.
A local government exco member aligned with a powerful caucus remarked:
“No one can say where the exercise will take place, but we can confirm it will hold tomorrow across the 11 wards of Ajeromi Ifelodun.”
Party faithful fear that lack of transparency may result in parallel lists of executives, reminiscent of 2023 when congresses were held at unusual hours and venues, including private homes.
Despite the uncertainty, Evangelist Israel Ogunrinde, a party leader, has called for unity.
“If there is no cohesion in this process, the party will continue being weaker and divided. We have already suffered enough losses through defections,” he warned.
Whether tomorrow’s congress will unite the party or deepen its crisis remains to be seen.
