The Peoples Democratic Party has begun a major internal shake-up across its South-South structures following a series of defections that have hit the party in recent weeks. The party leadership is now focusing on identifying and removing members whose loyalty is in question.
A senior member of the National Working Committee (NWC), who preferred not to be named, told our correspondent that this move is part of a broader plan to restore discipline and unity within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We’re taking this very seriously,” the source said. “We cannot continue to operate with individuals who are clearly not committed to the party’s future. The recent defections have shown us where the cracks are, and we must now seal them.”
The NWC has already taken legal steps in response to some of the high-profile exits, including that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa. The committee is also expected to respond to the defection of Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno after the Sallah celebrations.
“These leaders didn’t leave alone,” the source explained. “Their allies and loyalists still hold critical positions at the state and zonal levels, and that’s dangerous. We need to clear them out and replace them with people who genuinely believe in the PDP.”
The PDP has been grappling with internal challenges since its loss in the 2023 general elections. With defections weakening the party’s presence, especially in strategic southern states, party leaders are stepping up efforts to rebuild.
PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor openly criticized the defectors and warned others thinking of leaving to do so immediately. “No political party will be glad to lose key figures, especially a sitting governor from a state like Akwa Ibom. But if they must leave, let them leave now,” he said.
Osadolor also took aim at Governor Eno, questioning his motivations for leaving. “It is sad that the men we once looked up to as beacons of integrity have turned out to be nothing but overhyped figures, big men in oversized shoes and garments who cannot meet the basic standards of integrity.”
He noted that Eno, being a cleric, was expected to show compassion and serve the people with truth and humility. However, he believes the governor’s defection is more about political ambition than service. “His focus, clearly, is securing a second term,” Osadolor said.
Despite the challenges, Osadolor remains hopeful. He believes the recent exits will help the PDP filter out uncommitted members and focus on rebuilding a stronger, more loyal party. “Those of us who truly believe in this party are ready to reposition it. All hope is not lost,” he noted.
