The Social Democratic Party in Ondo State on Thursday started its online membership registration eto strengthen internal cohesion and expand its grassroots base ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Party leaders and representatives from all 18 local government areas converged at the state secretariat in Akure for the exercise.
The gathering doubled as a strategy session and training programme, where designated officials were equipped with the technical skills required to drive the digital registration process at ward and local government levels.
Party officials said the shift to an online membership register represents more than a routine administrative update, describing it as a deliberate step to promote transparency, inclusiveness, and organisational discipline.
The initiative, they noted, is expected to harmonise existing records, eliminate duplications, and establish a reliable database to support mobilisation and informed decision-making.
The development follows a directive by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), requiring all registered political parties to submit updated membership registers on or before May 10, in line with Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act 2026.
The provision mandates that such registers be filed not later than 21 days before party primaries, as part of efforts to strengthen electoral integrity and accountability.
Addressing participants, the State Chairman, Gbenga Akinbuli, commended the turnout, describing it as a reflection of renewed commitment within the party.
He urged attendees to deploy the knowledge gained to ensure that both existing and prospective members are effectively captured in the process.
Akinbuli emphasised that the success of the exercise would depend on cooperation across party structures, warning that internal divisions could undermine broader political goals.
He called for unity of purpose, stressing that the party’s strength lies in its discipline and cohesion.
In his remarks, the State Secretary, Femi Ikoyi, reaffirmed the party’s readiness to embark on what he described as “massive and strategic mobilisation” ahead of the 2027 polls.
He disclosed that the registration exercise would be followed by targeted engagement initiatives aimed at attracting new members, particularly youths and professionals, while reinvigorating the existing base.
Ikoyi added that the party would prioritise internal democracy, capacity building, and issue-based campaigning as central elements of its electoral strategy, noting that the leadership remains committed to building a competitive political structure.
Observers say the renewed emphasis on membership expansion and digital integration signals a broader effort by the party to reposition itself within the state’s political landscape.
With increasing public interest in governance reforms and accountability, party leaders believe a unified structure supported by a credible membership database will be key to translating grassroots support into electoral gains.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather pace, the party appears focused on consolidating its structures and presenting itself as a viable alternative capable of making a significant impact at the polls.
