Fresh controversy has erupted within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State following alleged moves by some powerful interests to overturn the outcome of the Ibadan North-East/South-East Federal Constituency primary election won by Hon. Adejoke Adekanmbi-Akinseye.
The development comes after stakeholders across the constituency described it as a “clear and overwhelming victory” at the party’s primary election held on May 17, 2026.
Stakeholders said the outcome of the exercise reflected the collective will of party members across the 24 wards in the federal constituency.
However, fresh allegations have emerged that some influential figures within the party are allegedly plotting to subvert the outcome of the election by denying Adekanmbi-Akinseye her Certificate of Return despite what supporters insist was a landslide victory.
Sources within the party alleged that former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, who is believed to be politically aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is among forces allegedly backing moves to alter the outcome of the primary.
The allegations have since heightened tension among party faithful in the constituency, with many insisting that the mandate freely given to Adekanmbi-Akinseye must not be tampered with.
According to results made available to stakeholders, Adekanmbi-Akinseye recorded a massive lead over her opponent in both local government areas that make up the constituency.
In Ibadan South-East Local Government, she reportedly polled 294 votes against her opponent’s 10 votes, while in Ibadan North-East Local Government, she secured 914 votes as against 25 votes scored by the rival aspirant.
Party members and supporters have therefore questioned what they described as attempts to “rewrite an already concluded election.”
One of the stakeholders, who spoke anonymously, said, “This is not even a close contest that anybody can manipulate quietly. The figures are clear, and the delegates know who they voted for. Trying to impose another candidate after such overwhelming results will damage the integrity of the PDP.”
Another party loyalist warned that any attempt to deny the winner her mandate could trigger avoidable division within the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
“The people have spoken clearly through the ballot. What the party should be doing now is preparing for the general election, not creating unnecessary crises. Justice must prevail,” the source added.
The stakeholders also appealed to the national leadership of the PDP to intervene swiftly and ensure that the authentic winner of the primary election is officially recognised without further delay.
They maintained that the credibility of the party’s internal democratic process was now being tested and urged leaders of the party not to allow external influence or personal interests to override the wishes of delegates.
Meanwhile, Adekanmbi-Akinseye has continued to receive endorsements and solidarity messages from supporters across the constituency following the controversy.
The PDP candidate had earlier pledged to focus on youth empowerment, quality education, and infrastructure development if elected into the House of Representatives in 2027.
Stakeholders say the best way forward for the party is unity and respect for the outcome of the primary election.
“Party supremacy should mean respecting the decision of delegates, not overturning it behind closed doors,” one of the leaders stated.
