The largest and most active sociopolitical group in Oyo State, The Omituntun Benedict Forum (OBF) on Sunday held 2026 New Year Get-Together at the founder residence, Akobo–Olorunda, Ibadan.
The colourful event, which marked the forum’s first major gathering of the year, featured interfaith prayers by Imam Ayilara and Pastor Olanrewaju respectively, unity messages, and celebration, bringing together members in an atmosphere of peace and togetherness.
Speaking at the occasion, Founder of OBF Oyo State, Oloye Benedict Akika who is also the Agbaakin Olorunda-Abaa reaffirmed the loyalty of Governor Seyi Makinde to the PDP, dismissing claims that the governor was planning to defect to another political party.
Akika described the rumours as the handiwork of political opponents seeking to distract the party, stressing that Governor Makinde remains the backbone of the PDP in Oyo State. He noted that the governor’s leadership has continued to strengthen the party’s structure and increase its popularity across the state.
He added that the PDP in Oyo State remains strong, united, and focused, and is already positioning itself strategically ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to him, there is no crisis within the PDP leadership in the state, urging party members to remain steadfast and committed.
In a major boost to grassroots mobilization and civic engagement, Akika announced that he would personally sponsor the transportation of 20 members of the Omituntun Benedict Forum every day to participate in the ongoing Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Oyo State.
He explained that the initiative was aimed at encouraging eligible citizens, particularly party members, to register and prepare adequately to exercise their civic responsibilities in future elections.
Akika further urged OBF members to remain active in party affairs by consistently attending PDP ward meetings and other official engagements, emphasizing that unity, discipline, and grassroots participation are essential for electoral success.
The event attracted several prominent party leaders, including Iya Adinni of Lagelu West, Alhaja Wulemot Ibitoye, the Executive Chairman of Lagelu Local Government Area, Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen, Vice Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Hon. Adebayo Babajide Gabriel, the lawmaker representing Ibadan North II Constituency, Hon Owolabi, the lawmaker representing Ibadan NorthEast I, Prince Falana Adebayo Adebowale, the Chairman for Oyo State Agency for Youth Development among others in the Oyo State House of Assembly.
Other notable PDP stakeholders and leaders were also in attendance, alongside thousands of enthusiastic elders, women, ladies, youth and various members of the Omituntun Benedict Forum who turned out in large numbers to celebrate the New Year.
A unique highlight of the event was the joining of an entrepreneur and investor, Mr Abiodun Micheal Abiola, MD WNS Supermarket into the umbrella party, PDP.
The New Year Get-Together featured goodwill messages, music, dance, and various entertainment activities, as well as side attractions and sumptuous meals. The lively atmosphere reflected unity, celebration, and renewed commitment to the PDP’s vision and political direction in Oyo State.
