UI’s Prof Akinoso emerges chairman of Wike-loyal PDP faction in Oyo

By Adejayan Gbenga

A professor of Food Technology at the University of Ibadan, Abdulrahman Akinoso, has emerged as chairman of the Wike-faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State.

Akinoso was elected alongside 38 other executive members during a party congress held on Saturday at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Oke Ado, Ibadan.

Among the newly elected officials are Dr. Abiola Olaonipekun as secretary, Alhaja Latifah Latifu as women leader and Mr. A. Adeleke as youth leader.

The congress was attended by representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Nigeria Police Force, other security agencies and prominent members of the party.

The election was supervised by members of the electoral committee led by Prince Diran Odeyemi as chairman, while Dr. Phillips Adeniyi served as secretary. Other members included Hon. Awoniyi Tolulope, Mr. Babatunde Gbadamosi, Queen Stepheine Oyechere, Alhaji Yusuf Abidakun and Mr. Olumide Aguda.

In his inaugural address, Akinoso urged members of the party to set aside internal differences and work towards strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He said the Immediate task of the new executive is to align with the timetable released by the electoral commission and begin preparations for the party’s e-membership registration.

According to him, a political party can only remain relevant if it wins elections, therefore members must focus on promoting unity and mobilising support to ensure the party’s success in future polls.