PDP NWC, Governors Set for Crucial May 11 Meeting to Avert Mass Defections

Barring any last-minute changes, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will hold a decisive meeting on May 11 between its National Working Committee (NWC) and the PDP Governors’ Forum. This meeting comes amid a wave of defections that has threatened the stability of Nigeria’s main opposition party. According to a senior NWC official who spoke anonymously, the meeting will serve as a platform to chart a course forward for the party, with particular focus on stemming the tide of defections, resolving lingering legal issues, and restoring unity within the ranks.

The urgency of the meeting follows the recent defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, and several elected officials to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The NWC has since directed its Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade SAN, to take legal action aimed at recovering the party’s mandate in Delta, citing the Electoral Act which mandates elected officials to relinquish their positions upon defection.

Leadership Speaks: PDP Remains United and Resolute

Speaking after the party’s 600th NWC meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum addressed the situation with a tone of resolve and unity. He dismissed any notion of internal crisis, insisting that the PDP remains “one indivisible party.” Damagum emphasized the need for loyalty among party faithful and warned against using alleged divisions as a justification for defection.

“The beauty of this party is that it has always resolved its crisis,” Damagum said. “No amount of intimidation or mischief can bring down this party. We’ve seen worse and survived.” He confirmed that legal proceedings would be initiated to retrieve mandates lost to defectors, especially in Delta State. Furthermore, the NWC has endorsed recommendations made by PDP governors and will forward them to the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting slated for May 27.

Governors’ Role: Seeking Unity Amid Legal Disputes

One contentious issue the PDP aims to resolve is the ongoing leadership tussle over the National Secretary position. While the Supreme Court has ruled in favor of Senator Samuel Anyanwu, several governors are pushing for the appointment of Deputy National Secretary, Architect Setonji Koshoedo. Party insiders revealed that this matter will be discussed extensively during the May 11 meeting.

The party also agreed to adopt the governors’ recommendation for an early National Elective Convention in August. Acting Chairman Damagum stated that the proposed dates of August 28-30 for the convention would be subject to NEC approval. A South-South Caretaker Committee led by Chief Emmanuel Ogidi has also been tasked with rebuilding the party’s structure in Delta State, signaling the PDP’s resolve to maintain a stronghold in the region despite recent setbacks.

Okowa’s Defection and Allegations Against Atiku

In a dramatic twist, former Delta State Governor and 2023 PDP vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa has alleged that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is also planning to leave the PDP. Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Okowa claimed to have communicated with Atiku, who reportedly hinted at dissatisfaction within the party. However, Atiku swiftly refuted the claim, maintaining his commitment to the PDP.

Okowa justified his defection to the APC, citing the need to align Delta State with the federal government to enhance access to resources and development opportunities. He expressed regret for not aligning with his people’s desire for a southern presidency in 2023, hinting that this disconnect contributed to his decision to leave. “PDP does not appear to be really ready for competition in the 2027 elections,” Okowa said, describing the defection as a calculated political realignment.

A Battle for Relevance Ahead of 2027

Okowa’s departure, along with that of Governor Oborevwori, underscores a broader political recalibration ahead of the 2027 elections. Both leaders argue that being part of the ruling party will help Delta State access critical federal resources and regain political influence. “I was governor in opposition for eight years, and I know how much we missed out on,” Okowa stated, highlighting the challenges of being in opposition while seeking federal support.

With PDP’s internal conflicts and defections mounting, the outcome of the May 11 meeting between the NWC and governors could prove pivotal. As the party prepares for NEC deliberations and a possible national convention, its ability to unify and restructure may determine whether it remains a formidable force in 2027—or cedes further ground to its rivals. The PDP’s future now hangs in the balance, with May 11 shaping up to be a day of reckoning.