The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is preparing to restructure its South-South zonal and state leadership in a major effort to remove disloyal members and prevent further defections.
A source from the PDP’s National Working Committee, who requested anonymity, told Sunday PUNCH that this move is part of the party’s renewed strategy to strengthen its position ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The source revealed that the party is deeply unhappy with the recent surge in defections and intends to take decisive measures.
“This won’t be business as usual. After Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former governor Ifeanyi Okowa left, the NWC met and decided to challenge their defection legally. That process is ongoing. Regarding Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, who defected recently, the party will respond after the Sallah break,” the source explained.
The defections have weakened the party’s structure because many of the defecting leaders have loyal followers in key state and zonal roles. The party plans to thoroughly revamp the South-South leadership to ensure only dedicated members remain, cutting off political opportunists who abandon the party at the first sign of trouble.
Since the 2023 elections, the PDP has faced significant internal challenges, losing prominent members to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Notably, on April 23, Governor Oborevwori, former governor Okowa, and other top leaders left the party. After extended secret negotiations with APC leaders, Governor Eno and several officials officially defected last weekend.
This wave of departures has damaged the PDP’s image and diminished its electoral strength ahead of 2027.
Reacting to Eno’s defection, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor encouraged disloyal members to leave swiftly so that loyalists can focus on rebuilding.
“No party likes losing key figures, especially sitting governors from important states like Akwa Ibom. So, the news was met with mixed feelings,” Osadolor said.
“But at this crucial moment for Nigeria, what is needed are genuine patriots dedicated to nation-building, not politicians chasing personal gain. It’s disheartening that some former role models have become mere shadows, unable to uphold basic integrity.”
Osadolor criticized Eno, a cleric, for placing political survival over the welfare of the people.
“Given his background, many hoped his governance would reflect compassion and truth. But it seems his priority is securing a second term, not Nigerians’ wellbeing,” he added.
Despite the setbacks, Osadolor remains hopeful that the defections will galvanize Nigerians to reject the APC in 2027.
“I’ve said before, those who want to leave should do so quickly. If they need assistance, they can come to Wadata Plaza, and we will help them exit. It’s better they go now than linger and sabotage the party. Those of us who believe in the PDP are ready to rebuild. All hope is not lost.”
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