Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has stated that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has lost confidence in itself due to ongoing internal conflicts.
Jandor, who was the party’s governorship candidate in Lagos State during the 2023 election, made this known during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday.
Jandor officially left the PDP on Monday, citing leadership struggles at the party’s national level as one of the key reasons for his departure. He noted that the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has faced increasing criticism from party members. Many within the PDP blame him for the deepening crisis that worsened after the removal of former National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu.
The situation within the party has been further complicated by a dispute over the National Secretary position, with both Senator Samuel Anyanwu and former National Youth Leader Sunday Ude-Okoye claiming the role. This division has spread across different levels of the party, including the Board of Trustees, National Working Committee, and National Executive Committee. The crisis has particularly affected the South-South region, where a Zonal Congress was held on February 22 without approval from the governors.
Jandor expressed his concerns about how these internal problems have damaged the PDP’s reputation.
“Who goes around posting that they are a member of PDP these days? With what is happening at both the national and state levels, the optics are bad. Even the party itself has given up,” he said.
He further noted that the party remains under the control of the same individuals who have contributed to its issues. He stated that with congresses scheduled for 2025 and primary elections in 2026, the situation is unlikely to improve.
“If you still have the same set of people in charge, you can’t expect different results,” he added.
Regarding his political future, Jandor said he has not yet decided on his next move but will take time to consider his options.
“We have 18 political parties in Nigeria, so there are 17 other options. But we will consult and decide. There are also coalitions forming, with people coming together to explore new possibilities,” he said.
He also noted that, no matter which party he joins, he will abide by its leadership and rules.
“This is the path we have chosen, and we are not deviating. Only God determines the future,” he said.
