A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has distanced itself from the declaration issued after the Ibadan opposition summit.

The group said it neither participated in nor endorsed the outcome of the meeting held in the state capital.

Claims No Knowledge of Gathering

In a statement signed by State Chairman, Prof. Abdulrahman Akinoso, and Secretary, Dr Abiola Olaonipekun, the faction said it had no prior knowledge of the summit.

Operating under the leadership of former Deputy Governor Hazeem Gbolarumi, the group described the meeting as lacking constitutional backing.

“The so-called Ibadan summit is a ruse. It was merely an assemblage of individuals, not a legitimate convergence of political parties,” the statement read.

Rejects Single Candidate Plan

The faction also dismissed reports of an agreement to adopt a single presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

It insisted that no recognised organ of the PDP approved participation in the summit or any coalition arrangement.

“For any coalition or alliance to be binding, it must be anchored on institutional authorisation, not informal gatherings lacking due process,” it added.

No Alliance With Opposition Parties

The group further rejected claims linking it to any alliance with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or other opposition parties.

It maintained that decisions of such magnitude must follow due consultation within the party’s constitutional framework.

Focus on Internal Strengthening

While acknowledging ongoing political realignments, the faction said its priority remains strengthening internal party structures ahead of the 2027 elections.

It also cautioned against misinformation suggesting PDP endorsement of the Ibadan declaration, reaffirming its readiness to fully participate in the upcoming polls.