The Oluyole Local Government chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday held an expanded stakeholders’ meeting, to address internal issues within the party.
The meeting brought together key political leaders, party executives, and appointees in a renewed push for unity and grassroots consolidation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The meeting, held at the Local Government Council Secretariat, Idi-Ayunre, was convened by the Executive Chairman, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, alongside the party chairman, Alhaji Nasiru Hamzat.
It served as a platform to brief stakeholders on party affairs at the local level while reinforcing collective loyalty to Governor Seyi Makinde.
Addressing the stakeholders, Olatunji reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in line with what he called entrenched standard practice under the leadership of governor Makinde.
He disclosed that over ₦2 million has been realised from the 10 per cent statutory deductions contributed by elected officials and political appointees in the council.
He explained that the funds are being deployed to support party members, assist leaders, and strengthen the PDP’s structure across all 10 wards in Oluyole, noting that such internal support systems are critical for sustaining political cohesion at the grassroots.
The council boss commended Governor Makinde for what he described as unflinching support for grassroots development, adding that the best form of appreciation from beneficiaries is to give back to the party to ensure equitable distribution of benefits.
Olatunji further urged party leaders and members to remain steadfast in their alignment with the governor’s political structure, popularly known as the GSM, stressing that loyalty remains key to reaping the rewards of their collective efforts.
“The surest path for us is to stay united and continue to support His Excellency. That is how we can sustain progress and secure our future politically,” he said.
The meeting also addressed compliance with the 10 per cent deduction policy, with a call on state-level appointees from the local government to key into the initiative in order to bolster party strength at the grassroots.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA), Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, disclosed that he had consistently fulfilled the obligation even before it was formally emphasized, and pledged to mobilise other appointees to ensure wider compliance.
Similarly, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Oluyole Federal Constituency, Hon. Olumide Akinlade, endorsed the initiative and reaffirmed his commitment to the growth and development of the PDP in Oluyole LG.
A former member of the House of Representatives, Depo Oyedokun, described the meeting as unprecedented in the political history of Oluyole, noting that since 2003, there had never been such a unifying stakeholders’ gathering despite the area previously holding multiple elective positions.
He commended Olatunji for fostering unity and deepening the culture of visionary leadership among party leaders, expressing optimism that the renewed cohesion would translate into electoral success in 2027.
Also speaking, the PDP chairman in Oluyole, Alhaji Nasiru Hamzat, urged leaders across the 10 wards to actively participate in local meetings, stressing that strengthening the party cannot be left solely to ward executives.
Hamzat further praised the council chairman’s openness and transparent approach to governance in managing party-related funds, noting that the initiative has created an inclusive system where members can clearly see how contributions are utilised for collective benefit.
According to him, “With the recent increase in salaries of local government appointees by Governor Makinde, this initiative could have been handled differently.
“However, the chairman’s transparency and exemplary leadership has ensured trust and shared ownership among party members.”
The meeting was attended by prominent stakeholders, including party chieftain Hon. Ayuba Balogun; Chairman of the Oyo State Education Trust Fund, Hon. Abdul Rahmon AbdulRaheem; immediate past PDP chairman in Oluyole, Alhaji Adegbola Mukaila; and former council chairmen, Hon. Popoola Olaide (Settle) and Hon. Kehinde Abore.
Others present were the Leader of the Legislative Arm, Hon. Taofeek Azeez; representatives of supervisory councillors and special assistants, as well as local government executives, ward chairmen, and other party stakeholders.
In their final remarks, the stakeholders in their separate submissions unanimously reaffirmed loyalty to Governor Makinde’s leadership and a commitment to strengthening party unity as preparations gradually intensify for the next electoral cycle.
