The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially declared the election of new national officers open at its ongoing 2025 National Convention holding at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
The announcement marks a major progression in the party’s two-day convention, which has drawn thousands of delegates, observers, party leaders and security personnel from across the country.
The declaration came shortly after the completion of accreditation for most state delegations, with convention officials confirming that the process had reached “well over 80 percent.”
Delegates were subsequently directed to take their designated positions as electoral officers moved in to set up the voting cubicles at the centre of the pitch.
The atmosphere within the stadium remained charged and colourful, with party songs echoing through the stands as supporters waved the PDP green-white-red flags.
Senior party leaders, including several governors, national officers and former lawmakers, were already seated ahead of the formal commencement of voting.
According to officials, the election will determine a new set of national executives expected to steer the affairs of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The positions up for contest include National Chairman, National Secretary, National Treasurer, National Publicity Secretary and various zonal leadership offices.
Speaking shortly before declaring the election open, one of the convention presiding officers urged delegates to conduct themselves peacefully and uphold the party’s reputation.
He emphasized that the PDP must emerge from the convention more united and disciplined, noting that the voting process would be transparent, open and monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
Security remains tight around the stadium, with multiple security agencies manning entry points and maintaining crowd control.
Commercial activity around the venue also slowed significantly, as several adjoining roads were cordoned off to allow the free movement of delegates.
Despite earlier concerns over internal disputes and the boycott announced by the Kebbi State chapter of the party, convention organisers said all preparations had been completed for a smooth election.
They further assured that the outcome would reflect “the collective decision of the majority of PDP members nationwide.”
As voting continues, party members and political observers across the country are closely monitoring developments in Ibadan, with expectations that the results will shape the PDP’s internal balance and strategic direction going into the next electoral cycle.
More updates to follow as events unfold.
