PDP can win Ekiti governorship election if united – Ex-commissioner

A governorship aspirant under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ekiti State, Mrs Funmi Ogun, has expressed confidence in the party’s readiness to secure victory in the forthcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for June 20, 2026.

Ogun, a former Commissioner for Works in Ekiti State, noted that PDP has gained significant momentum across the state, driven by the dedication and commitment of its members to meet the expectations of the electorate, who are yearning for political change.

In a statement issued in Ado Ekiti on Saturday by her Special Adviser on Media, Oladimeji Atenibiaje, Ogun emphasised that the ongoing mobilisation and engagement efforts by party stakeholders positioned the PDP as a viable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

However, she raised concerns about the potential impact of the crisis currently affecting the PDP’s National Working Committee, NWC, particularly the leadership dispute over the office of National Secretary, on the party’s chances in the upcoming election.

She said the internal rift, if left unresolved, could undermine the efforts of the Ekiti State chapter of the PDP, despite its grassroots support and organisational strength.

“Our objective is to win the 2026 governorship election and bring about transformative governance in Ekiti,” she stated. “But the unresolved issues within the NWC are troubling. These distractions could weaken our campaign machinery at a critical time.”

Ogun called on the NWC, led by Alhaji Iliya Umar Damagun, to address the internal conflict and prioritise the stability and unity of the party. She stressed that the committee must rise above individual interests to secure the party’s collective future.

“I appeal to the leadership to find a common ground that will put an end to the ongoing dispute. The PDP is bigger than any single person or group. A divided house cannot stand, especially with the 2027 general election on the horizon.”

The PDP has been embroiled in a leadership tussle over the status of its National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu. The dispute has reportedly deepened divisions within the party, particularly between some serving governors and a faction loyal to FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.