The Southwest zone of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has unanimously decided to select its leaders through consensus as part of efforts to foster peace and unity within the party.
This decision was announced by the Deputy National Chairman (South) of the party, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, during a press briefing on Wednesday. The briefing followed the Southwest PDP zonal executive meeting held at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
Ambassador Arapaja explained that the party’s Southwest leaders, including Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, had resolved to retain existing leadership positions within their states. He expressed hope that Lagos and Ogun states would soon agree to the arrangement.
According to Arapaja, the consensus approach is a strategic move aimed at strengthening unity within the party and avoiding the divisions that often accompany competitive elections. He emphasized that the agreement was not imposed but was willingly accepted by party members to ensure the PDP remains a strong force at the national level.
“We felt that the current officeholders should retain their positions. Most people gladly accepted the arrangement, except for two states, but discussions are ongoing,” Arapaja said. “Our governors and party leaders have also encouraged members to resolve internal rifts to avoid crises and promote unity.”
He added that once all states agree, the party would simply affirm the appointed leaders.
The meeting, hosted by Governor Makinde, was attended by prominent party figures, including former governors, serving and former deputy governors, and other stakeholders. Notable attendees at the press briefing included former Osun State Governor Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Ekiti State Deputy Governor Senator Biodun Olujimi, PDP Southwest Secretary Dr. Eddy Oyefeso, PDP South West Publicity Secretary Hon. Rahman Owokoniran, and Ogun State PDP Chairman Hon. Abayomi Tella.
