Mandate Weekly Ward Meetings for Grassroots Revival
Ado-Ekiti, Feb. 12, 2025 – The Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has resolved to revamp its grassroots structure and dissolve inactive local government caretaker committees as part of a renewed effort to strengthen the party ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.
These resolutions emerged from a crucial stakeholders’ meeting held at the party secretariat in Ajilisun, Ado-Ekiti, where party leaders and representatives from across the state gathered under the leadership of the State Caretaker Committee (CTC) Chairman, Chief Dare Adeleke. The meeting, which included ten representatives from each of the 16 local government areas, was convened to address the recent postponement of the party’s ward congress and discuss urgent steps needed to reposition the PDP for electoral success.
Consensus on Ward-Level Revival and Monitoring
A major concern raised at the meeting was the dwindling level of political activities at the ward and local government levels, which stakeholders noted could weaken the party’s chances in the upcoming election. Participants stressed that grassroots engagement is the foundation of electoral victory, and as such, all 177 wards must hold regular meetings to mobilize members and sustain momentum.
To ensure compliance, Chief Adeleke announced the formation of a dedicated monitoring team that will oversee ward activities and report back on attendance and engagement levels. Stakeholders emphasized that failure to hold these meetings would be seen as a lack of commitment and could result in disciplinary actions against non-compliant leaders.
Caretaker Committees to Be Dissolved Over Alleged Inactivity
Another contentious issue discussed at the meeting was the continued lack of activity from some local government caretaker chairmen, many of whom were appointed five months ago without broad consultations. Stakeholders expressed dissatisfaction with the imposed leadership, arguing that the committees had failed to energize the party structure at the grassroots level.
After deliberations, it was unanimously agreed that the current caretaker committees should be dissolved with immediate effect. The chairman was mandated to conduct wide-ranging consultations with party stakeholders at the grassroots level to appoint new, competent individuals who enjoy the trust and support of their local communities. The party leadership emphasized that only those who are genuinely committed to PDP’s progress should be considered for reappointment.
Financial Commitments from Party Aspirants and Leaders
Amid discussions on strengthening party operations, stakeholders commended several party leaders and governorship aspirants for their financial support towards PDP’s activities.
Otunba Peter Obafemi was specifically lauded for his consistent funding of secretariat staff salaries since January, a commitment that has kept party operations running smoothly.
Dr. Wole Oluyede, a governorship aspirant, pledged to provide ₦10,000 monthly to each of the 177 wards to facilitate regular meetings and political activities. In addition, he donated ₦500,000 towards the purchase of a modern sound system and new party flags for the state secretariat.
Another aspirant, Otunba Emmanuel Fayose, further boosted the party’s resources by committing ₦200,000 towards upgrading the sound system at the secretariat.
Stakeholders praised these contributions, urging other aspirants and party chieftains to support grassroots mobilization efforts financially and logistically.
Call for Unity and Commitment Ahead of Elections
In his closing remarks, Chief Dare Adeleke emphasized the importance of unity and commitment as the party navigates the challenging pre-election period. He urged all members to remain focused on the bigger goal of reclaiming political power in Ekiti State, stressing that internal conflicts and apathy must be replaced with cooperation and dedication.
“All hands must be on deck as we work towards a common goal. The PDP in Ekiti is strong, but we must be more proactive at the grassroots level. Our success in the next election depends on how well we mobilize and engage with the people,” Adeleke stated.
The meeting concluded with a collective agreement to implement all resolutions without delay and ensure that the party is fully prepared for the governorship contest.
The communiqué was signed by Deji Ogunsakin, Secretary of the Ekiti PDP Stakeholders Committee.
