The Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is encountering a new wave of internal strife as the state congresses approach.
Tensions have risen as several members of the State Working Committee (SWC) have accused State Chairman Chief Agboola Alaba of making unilateral decisions without consulting the executive members. They allege that Alaba has been operating the party like his personal domain, disregarding the input and collaboration of other executive members.
In a joint statement released by the SWC after an emergency meeting, the members expressed their concerns about Alaba’s handling of matters related to the upcoming congress. They claimed that key decisions were being made without the consensus of the SWC.
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The statement, signed by Deputy Chairman Lanre Omolase, Secretary Mrs. Funmilayo Ogun, Youth Leader Aare Amerijoye, Organizing Secretary Abeni Olayinka, Legal Adviser Sunday Olowolafe, Northern Senatorial Chairman Funsho Afolayan, Auditor Chief Folashade Akintade, Treasurer Chief Paul Oluwole, Financial Secretary Gani Bakare, and Central Senatorial Chairman Ojo Gold, criticized Alaba’s leadership.
They argued that Alaba’s leadership has not only failed to unify the party but has also created disorder within its ranks.
“It is clear that the chairman has continuously violated the ethical standards expected of SWC members and has flagrantly flouted party rules. The incorrect notion that he is the sole administrator of the party, without consulting the SWC, must be corrected without further delay,” the statement read.
The SWC members urged Alaba to engage in broader consultations, particularly drawing on the knowledge and experience of the Party Working Committees at the National and Zonal levels, to make informed decisions in collaboration with the SWC members.
“As members dedicated to the progress and success of the PDP in Ekiti State, we urge him to adjust his leadership style to meet the trust and expectations of our members. Therefore, we have collectively agreed to issue this warning to the chairman for him to be mindful of the consequences of his actions.”
In response, Chief Agboola Alaba denied the allegations of unilateral decision-making and promoting factions within the party. He stated that the party’s constitution and guidelines do not allow one person to run the party’s affairs single-handedly and emphasized that internal contests and agitations are natural, especially with the forthcoming congresses.
