A Professor of Food Technology at the University of Ibadan, Abdulrahman Akinoso, has emerged as the chairman of a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in Oyo State.

Akinoso was elected alongside 38 other executive members during the faction’s state congress held on Saturday at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Oke Ado, Ibadan.

Other executives elected include Dr Abiola Olaonipekun as Secretary, Alhaja Latifah Latifu as Women Leader, and Mr A. Adeleke as Youth Leader.

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

The exercise 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, Babatunde Gbadamosi, Queen Stepheine Oyechere, Alhaji Yusuf Abidakun and Olumide Aguda.

In his acceptance speech, Akinoso urged party members to set aside internal disagreements and work together to strengthen the party ahead of future elections.

“The primary responsibilities of party executive members are to coordinate party activities, ensure harmony among members, and work towards party victory during general elections,” he said.

He added that the new leadership would focus on preparations for the 2027 general elections, including participation in the party’s electronic membership registration expected to commence soon.

“A political party is only relevant and benefits its members if it wins elections. That is our goal. We must set aside intra-party differences and concentrate our resources on promoting the party,” Akinoso said.