Facing a wave of defections described as ‘Hurricane Tinubu’, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has scheduled an emergency meeting of its National Working Committee (NWC) for Tuesday to address the escalating internal crises and mass exodus from its ranks.
The party’s leadership move follows the dramatic defection of key figures including former Vice Presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, state commissioners, local government chairmen, and the entire PDP structure in Delta State to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection, concluded after a closed-door meeting in Asaba last week, has rocked the PDP, sparking fears of Nigeria drifting into a one-party system.
The PDP is grappling with one of its worst crises since its formation in 1998, having lost over 300 members to the APC between February 2024 and February 2025. Most defections were attributed to internal disputes and dissatisfaction with party leadership.
In a move to halt the bleeding, acting PDP National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, will convene the critical NWC meeting at the PDP Secretariat in Abuja at noon on Tuesday. Key issues on the agenda include strategies to stem defections, preparations for upcoming Congresses, a scheduled National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, and plans for the National Elective Convention.
A high-ranking source revealed that the party leadership acknowledges the difficulty in stopping those determined to defect, particularly those allegedly under pressure from anti-corruption agencies. “Many defect for personal reasons or fear of prosecution. We can only appeal to their loyalty,” the source stated.
The PDP’s troubles are compounded by leadership disputes, particularly regarding the position of National Secretary. Although Senator Samuel Anyanwu was reaffirmed by the Supreme Court as National Secretary, tensions persist following the PDP Governors’ Forum appointment of Setonji Koshoedo as acting Secretary.
In interviews, Anyanwu and other senior party figures called for unity, reconciliation, and dedication to rebuilding the PDP. “It is time for peace. Everyone must forget about personal interests,” Anyanwu emphasized.
Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary Diran Odeyemi urged party leaders to match their rhetoric with action, warning that failure to resolve internal divisions could lead to further collapse.
Meanwhile, the APC has moved swiftly to capitalize on the PDP’s troubles. Delta defectors are set to be officially welcomed today in Asaba by APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, and other senior APC leaders.
APC Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim confirmed that all arrangements have been finalized for the event, describing the defections as a major political boost. Emma Eneukwu, APC’s Deputy National Chairman (South), praised Oborevwori’s move, describing it as a “massive political asset” that strengthens the APC’s hold on Delta State.
Responding to allegations that President Bola Tinubu’s government is orchestrating a shift toward a one-party state, the Presidency insisted that all defections were voluntary. Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, emphasized that President Tinubu remains committed to democratic principles, stating, “Democracy is alive and strong in Nigeria.” Onanuga dismissed claims of bribery and coercion, arguing that the opposition parties’ internal disarray was to blame for their woes.
In Akwa Ibom State, cracks have appeared within the PDP as Governor Umo Eno reportedly plans to defect to the APC. However, his efforts have stalled due to the refusal of his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, to support the move. A source close to the situation explained, “Eno cannot boast of significant political support without Emmanuel’s backing. His defection alone would be ineffective.”
With more defections looming and the opposition fragmented, the APC continues to tighten its grip ahead of the 2027 elections, while the PDP faces the enormous challenge of rebuilding its shattered structure.
