The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) elective national convention slated for Saturday in Ibadan is gathering momentum as party leaders and delegates from across the country continue to arrive in large numbers.
By 1:35 p.m., the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, was already filled to near capacity, with 17 states and the Federal Capital Territory fully accredited.
Although the convention was earlier scheduled to commence at 10 a.m., organisers shifted the kick-off time to 4 p.m. to allow more delegates travelling from across the 36 states to arrive.
Voting cubicles have been arranged at the centre of the pitch, and officials said proceedings would begin “in earnest” once accreditation closes.
Commuters in Ibadan faced a challenging morning as major motor parks around the stadium were shut to ease delegate movement.
Commercial vehicles operating on routes including Eleyele, Mokola Roundabout, Dugbe, Sango, University of Ibadan, Ojoo, Sasa, Oremeji, Oke Itunu, and Agodi Gate were forced to divert through alternative roads due to traffic restrictions around the venue.
The heavy vehicular diversion led to long delays for residents heading to work and markets across the metropolis.
The stadium buzzed with activity as thousands of PDP supporters adorned in the party’s trademark green, white, and red filled the stands.
Security agencies were stationed at strategic locations within and outside the venue, ensuring orderliness and safety.
