The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is planning a significant restructuring of its South-South regional and state leadership as part of efforts to remove disloyal members and curb further defections.
A source within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed to Sunday PUNCH that the overhaul aims to strengthen the party’s position ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The leadership is seriously concerned about the recent wave of defections,” the insider said. “Following the departures of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa from Delta State, the NWC has resolved to legally challenge their defections, a process that is currently underway. Regarding Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, who defected recently, the party plans to respond after the Sallah holidays.”
The source noted that many defectors still maintain influence through loyalists in key state and zonal roles. “We cannot allow such individuals to continue steering the party’s affairs. The South-South leadership will be completely restructured, retaining only those truly committed. There’s no tolerance for opportunists who abandon the party at the first sign of difficulty.”
Since the 2023 elections, the PDP has faced ongoing internal challenges, losing several prominent members to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Notably, Governor Oborevwori, ex-Governor Okowa, and other key figures left the party on April 23. Recently, Governor Eno and some close associates officially defected following extended negotiations with APC officials.
These defections have dealt a blow to the PDP’s image and eroded its electoral strength ahead of upcoming polls.
Commenting on Governor Eno’s defection, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor said it is better for disloyal members to leave sooner rather than hinder the party’s rebuilding process.
“Losing a sitting governor from a strategic state like Akwa Ibom is unfortunate,” he admitted. “However, Nigeria needs genuine patriots, not self-serving political traders. Sadly, some who were once respected have shown themselves to be more interested in personal gain than public service.”
Osadolor also criticized Eno, a former clergyman, for prioritizing his political ambitions over the welfare of the people.
“Given his background, many expected leadership driven by compassion and integrity. But it’s clear now that securing a second term is his main focus, not the interests of the citizens,” he said.
Despite these setbacks, Osadolor remains optimistic that the defections will ultimately allow the PDP to rebuild stronger.
“I’ve said it before: those who want to leave should do so quickly. If they need assistance, we’re ready to help them exit. Let them go now so loyal members can unite to restore the party. We’re ready to work hard and move forward,” he concluded.
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