PDP Governors Rally To Save Party Amid Defections, Wike Joins Crucial Abuja Meeting.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is grappling with a wave of defections and internal strife, prompting its governors to convene an urgent meeting in Abuja last night to avert the party’s potential collapse. Held at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, the gathering focused on addressing the party’s deepening crises and curbing high-profile defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
The meeting, attended by current and former PDP governors and prominent party figures, saw the unexpected arrival of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, who joined the discussions in a bid to unify the party. Notable attendees included Acting National Chairman Iliya Damagum, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, and former governors such as Seriake Dickson, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Liyel Imoke, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Achike Udenwa.
Topping the agenda was the need to resolve internal wrangling, particularly following the defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire PDP structure in Delta to the APC. The “Delta defections,” as some party stalwarts have termed them, were followed by further exits, including lawmakers in Jigawa State and reports of three PDP senators from Kebbi State preparing to join the APC. Rumours also swirl about potential defections by the governors of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and the PDP’s sole governor in the Southeast.
Adding to the party’s challenges, former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan’s declaration of support for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid has dimmed hopes of persuading former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest on the PDP platform. Meanwhile, former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido expressed optimism, predicting that APC members, including National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, would return to the PDP within six months. Speaking at a PDP congress in Dutse, Lamido accused the Tinubu administration of pushing Nigeria towards disintegration through “harsh economic policies” and a “failed mission,” urging collective action to counter the APC’s governance.
The governors also discussed preparations for the PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on May 27 and a planned convention in August, amid fears that unresolved issues could disrupt both events. A resolution was reportedly reached on the ongoing dispute over the party’s National Secretary position, with the deputy national secretary instructed to act in the role until the convention.
The meeting addressed the uncertain position of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, with party insiders seeking clarity on his commitment to the PDP amid speculation of a possible move to the Social Democratic Party. Some northern members argued that if a southern PDP candidate were to seek two terms, it might be preferable to allow Tinubu to complete his constitutional two terms by 2031, ensuring power rotates back to the North.
As the PDP navigates these turbulent waters, the governors’ resolve to strengthen the party and welcome returning members signals a determined effort to reclaim power in 2027, with Lamido asserting that the PDP will “rise with full force” to meet Nigerians’ aspirations.