…..Group pushes for SWC dissolution.
…..They are sabotage —Party’s Exco replies.
By: Oluwatosin Adesola
A major crisis is looming in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Ondo State Chapter following the loss of the party in the Akoko Northeast/Northwest federal constituency to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
While key stakeholders in the PDP under the auspices of the PDP Crusaders Group (PDPCP) called for the dissolution of the State Working Committee (SWC) amid growing discontent and concerns over internal affairs, the State leadership described those making the calls as sabotage.
The APC candidate, Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero had won the bye-election, having defeated the PDP Candidate, Olalekan Bada in the election held last weekend.
PDPCP called for a probe of the finances of the party over the outcome of the election.
In a statement by the spokesman of the PDP group, Hon. Mayokun Akinmoladun demanded for dissolution of SWC over allegations of mismanagement, lack of accountability, and failure to uphold the party’s principles and objectives at the state level.
Akinmoladun argued that the current leadership has fallen short of expectations, leading to dwindling confidence among party members and supporters.
According to him, key figures within the PDP have voiced their support for the dissolution, emphasizing the need for a fresh start and a reinvigorated approach to leadership.
He said such a move is crucial to revitalizing the party’s grassroots structures and reclaiming its position as a formidable political force in the state.
The group demanded accountability for the reported sum of Two Hundred Million Naira allocated for the Akoko North East/NorthWest bye-election.
Akinmoladun said there are serious concerns regarding the utilization of the allocated funds alleging that there is a lack of transparency in the handling of party resources, particularly in the conduct of the aforementioned bye-election.
The group stated the implications of such mismanagement undermine the credibility of the party and erode public trust.
His words “The interests of the party members and the electorate must be safeguarded through transparent and accountable governance.”
They described it as an aberration and a form of decrepit to the party for losing the election.
Reacting, the State leadership through the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Hon. Kennedy Peretei said “those calling for Exco dissolution are those who have always sabotaged the PDP at every election. The same persons who use the PDP as meal tickets, are pained that their anchor man and partner in crime is no longer relevant in the scheme of things.
“And for the record the Exco was not in charge of finances for the election. The Candidate and the Campaign Council are in a better position to address issues relating to funding of the bye election.
“Have their sponsors accounted for the funds (Alhaji Abubakar Atiku) sent for the 2023 general elections?
“Those who want to go to APC should do so honourably,” the PDP spokesman said.
