The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has unveiled a new Oyo State Secretariat in Oke-Ado, Ibadan, a location situated close to the All Progressives Congress (APC) office, in what party members and observers describe as a strategic political move.
The development places two major political parties within close proximity in one of Ibadan’s historically influential political corridors, drawing reactions from party stakeholders and residents in the area.
Speaking with our correspondent, a PDP member identified as Mr Hassan clarified that the property housing the secretariat is not privately owned by the party but leased under a local government scheme.
“The building is on lease. From Molete Bridge down to Dugbe falls under local government jurisdiction. It is a government scheme and cannot be sold outright,” he said, dismissing speculation that the party purchased the property.
Mr Hassan explained that the decision to locate the secretariat along a major road was deliberate, citing visibility and accessibility as key considerations.
Residents and business owners in the area expressed mixed but largely calm reactions to the development. A shop owner, Mr Oladele, described politics as “a mix of business and war,” noting that political activities often come with tension.
“You can’t completely remove thuggery from politics, but from what we are seeing now, everywhere is calm. I believe the commissioning will go smoothly,” he said.
Another trader, Mrs Titilayo, expressed confidence that the presence of the PDP would not disrupt commercial activities in the area.
“I relocated here from another place close to a party office and there was no trouble. PDP controls Molete and Oke-Ado; nobody wants trouble here. I believe the government has a timetable to manage campaigns properly,” she said.
Addressing security concerns, Mr Hassan assured residents that safety measures would be prioritised during party activities.
“We always engage professional security personnel during our events. Even if arguments arise, the safety of shop owners and residents is guaranteed,” he stated.
As preparations continue ahead of the official commissioning of the secretariat, residents of Oke-Ado say they remain watchful, hoping political activities in the area will remain peaceful.
