PDP Faces Crisis with Mass Defections and Internal Strife Ahead of 2027 Elections; NWC Convenes Emergency Meeting to Restore Stability.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing a critical juncture as it grapples with a significant wave of defections that threaten its stability and influence ahead of the 2027 general elections. In response to this crisis, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP has convened an emergency meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, 2025, to address the ongoing defections and the internal strife that has plagued the party for years.
Recent Defections and Party Dynamics
The urgency of the meeting stems from the dramatic exits from the party, notably the defection of former vice presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, as well as the entire PDP structure in Delta State. This mass defection occurred after a closed-door meeting in Asaba, where key party members, including the Deputy Governor and local government chairmen, shifted allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC) amid what has been termed "Hurricane Tinubu"—a metaphor for the sweeping changes in political allegiance affecting the PDP's strongholds3.
The PDP has been experiencing a tumultuous period, losing several prominent members in recent months, including Oluwole Oke, a five-time member of the House of Representatives. Reports suggest that two additional governors and approximately 40 lawmakers are poised to defect, further exacerbating the party's challenges[3]. The internal conflicts have left the party's structure in disarray, particularly in the South-South region, where divisions have weakened its operational capabilities.
Concerns and Responses from Leadership
The NWC meeting aims to tackle these pressing issues, with discussions expected to focus on strategies to prevent further defections and restore unity within the party. Senator Samuel Anyanwu, reaffirmed as National Secretary by a recent Supreme Court ruling, has indicated his intention to attend the meeting despite opposition from some party factions. The leadership is acutely aware that many defections stem from personal motivations and conflicts with anti-corruption agencies, which complicates efforts to retain members.
A high-ranking source within the party expressed scepticism about the NWC's ability to halt the exodus, noting that many members leave for personal reasons, often related to political survival rather than ideological shifts. This sentiment underscores the precarious position of the PDP as it navigates a landscape increasingly dominated by the APC, which has successfully attracted disillusioned members from rival parties[1].
Looking Ahead
As the PDP prepares for the emergency meeting, the stakes are high. With less than two years until the next general elections, the party must urgently address its internal crises to remain a viable contender against the ruling APC. The outcome of the NWC meeting could determine the future trajectory of the PDP and its ability to maintain its status as a leading opposition force in Nigeria's political landscape3.
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