The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is grappling with internal challenges, including a wave of defections, prompting a strategic meeting between the National Working Committee (NWC) and the Governors Forum. The meeting, scheduled for May 11th, aims to address these defections, the contentious issue of the National Secretary position, and other pressing matters affecting the party’s stability and future direction. The outcome of this meeting is anticipated to be pivotal for the PDP’s trajectory. This comes in the wake of the high-profile defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor and former PDP vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, and other elected officials from Delta State to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The NWC views these defections as driven by personal interests rather than legitimate grievances, emphasizing that the party had treated these individuals fairly.
The NWC has authorized legal action against the defecting Delta State officials to reclaim the mandates they won under the PDP banner. This action reflects the party’s determination to protect its interests and prevent further erosion of its support base. The NWC insists that the party remains united and cautioned against using internal disagreements as justification for defection. Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum emphasized the PDP’s resilience in overcoming past challenges, portraying the current situation as manageable and expressing confidence in the party’s ability to weather the storm. He underscored the party’s commitment to reclaiming its lost ground and preparing for the 2027 elections.
Internal discussions within the PDP also revolve around the position of National Secretary and recommendations from the Governors Forum. While the NWC has endorsed the governors’ recommendations, including the appointment of Architect Setonji Koshoedo as Deputy National Secretary and holding an early National Elective Convention in August, these proposals require approval from the National Executive Committee (NEC) scheduled to meet on May 27th. The proposed convention dates are tentatively set for late August, pending NEC’s ratification. A caretaker committee has been established to restructure the party in Delta State following the recent defections. The party also intends to take action against members who openly support President Tinubu, further underscoring its determination to maintain party discipline.
The defection of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa, has added another layer of complexity to the PDP’s internal dynamics. Okowa justified his defection by claiming that Atiku himself is planning to leave the PDP. He also cited the desire to align Delta State with the ruling party at the federal level for better access to resources and opportunities. Okowa expressed regret for not supporting a southern presidential candidate in the 2023 election, suggesting that he now believes he should have aligned with the will of his people. He maintained that the victory of the current Delta State Governor demonstrated continued confidence in his leadership.
Okowa asserted that consultations with stakeholders led to the collective decision of Delta State leaders to defect to the APC, highlighting the belief that this move would benefit the state. He argued that operating as an opposition governor hindered access to federal resources and opportunities, thus limiting the state’s development potential. He also suggested that the PDP is not adequately prepared for the 2027 elections, citing internal disputes and court cases as contributing factors. Okowa stated his belief that President Tinubu should be allowed to complete his eight-year term for the sake of national stability.
Atiku Abubakar, through his media aide, denied any intention of leaving the PDP, countering Okowa’s claims. He emphasized that individuals are free to choose their political affiliations and that he bears no ill will towards those who choose to leave the party. Atiku maintains his commitment to the PDP and his focus on addressing the party’s internal challenges. This public denial further underscores the ongoing internal struggles within the PDP and the contrasting narratives surrounding the motivations behind the recent defections. The clashing statements from key figures within the party highlight the depth of the divide and the challenges facing the PDP as it navigates its future. The upcoming meetings between the NWC, the Governors Forum, and the NEC are expected to be crucial in determining the party’s direction and its ability to overcome these internal conflicts.
