PDP Moves to Flush Out Disloyal Members Amid South-South Defections

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is preparing for a major overhaul of its South-South zonal and state structures in a decisive move to purge disloyal members and curb the recent wave of defections that has rocked the party. A member of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), who spoke to Sunday PUNCH on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the leadership is “clearly displeased” with the spate of desertions and is now poised to take firm, corrective measures.

“This will not be business as usual,” the source said. “When the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, defected, the NWC resolved to challenge their actions in court. That legal process is already underway. Similarly, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, who defected over the weekend, will face appropriate action after the Sallah break.”

The party believes the presence of defecting governors’ loyalists in strategic state and zonal positions has seriously compromised its internal strength. “To regain our footing, we must clean house,” the source stressed. “Only those who are committed to the PDP’s future will remain in charge. There’s no more space for political opportunists who jump ship at the first sign of discomfort.”

High-Profile Defections Shake Party Foundations

The PDP has been battling internal crises since its defeat in the 2023 general elections, with the recent exodus of prominent members further weakening its national cohesion. On April 23, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, along with former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and several other political heavyweights, defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), dealing a substantial blow to the party’s credibility.

Over the weekend, the trend continued as Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno and a number of state officials also jumped ship, following months of behind-the-scenes negotiations with APC operatives. The defections have not only cast doubt on the PDP’s internal unity but have also exposed its vulnerability in traditionally strongholds like the South-South.

These developments have left party faithful scrambling to plug the gaps and avert further erosion of support. The looming concern is the impact these losses could have on the PDP’s chances in the 2027 general elections, especially in zones once regarded as its electoral bedrock.

PDP Youth Leader Calls for Exit of Disloyal Members

Reacting to Governor Eno’s departure, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, urged all disloyal members considering defection to do so immediately, arguing that it would allow the party to focus on internal healing and reorganisation. “No party—big or small—celebrates the loss of a sitting governor, especially from a state as strategic as Akwa Ibom,” he said. “But at this point, we want those who don’t believe in this party to leave.”

Osadolor offered a scathing critique of recent defectors, accusing them of prioritising personal political ambition over public service and the party’s collective interests. “It is tragic that some of the figures we once revered as principled leaders have turned out to be overhyped individuals, political merchants who have chosen selfish survival over the greater good.”

His statements reflect the frustration within the PDP over the erosion of party discipline and loyalty. “We need sincere patriots, not desperate office holders whose only commitment is to the next election,” Osadolor added.

Cleric-Turned-Governor Eno Under Fire

Governor Umo Eno’s defection appears to have particularly stung party leaders and supporters alike, given his background as a religious leader and the high expectations that accompanied his rise to office. Osadolor lamented that Eno’s conduct since taking office betrayed the values many assumed he stood for.

“Given his background, one would have expected a worldview centered on compassion, service, and truth,” he said. “But what we are seeing is a man fixated on securing a second term at all costs. The welfare of the people seems secondary to his political ambitions.”

The PDP’s disappointment over Eno’s move underscores the growing tension between party ideology and political expediency. His defection, coupled with those of other South-South leaders, has fueled fears that the PDP’s traditional strongholds could fall further into APC’s grasp unless a radical course correction is made.

Rebuilding for 2027: “Let the Saboteurs Go”

Despite the setbacks, Osadolor remains optimistic about the PDP’s ability to bounce back. “We’ve said before: those looking for transport fare to leave should do so now. And if they need help, we at Wadata Plaza will gladly escort them out. Let them go quickly so the party can begin the work of healing.”

The party youth leader maintained that the PDP must rid itself of saboteurs if it hopes to rebuild in time for the 2027 elections. “The true believers are still here, and we are ready to reposition this party. All hope is not lost.”

As the PDP prepares to restructure its internal leadership and brace for legal battles against recent defectors, party insiders insist that the path forward lies in unity, loyalty, and a redefined commitment to national service. Whether these measures will stem the tide and reignite grassroots support remains to be seen. But one thing is clear—the battle for the PDP’s soul has begun.