The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared a firm stance against internal disloyalty as it moves to restore its strength ahead of the 2027 general elections. In response to a series of recent defections by prominent members, including governors and party executives, the PDP leadership is initiating a purge aimed at removing those it sees as betraying its cause.
During a recent meeting of the National Working Committee in Abuja, Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum disclosed that the party is set to restructure its leadership across several zones, starting with the South-South region. The goal is to rebuild party organs with committed members and replace individuals whose loyalty is in question. According to insiders, this reorganization will begin immediately after the Sallah holiday.
Damagum also confirmed that the party’s legal department has been directed to begin legal proceedings against elected officials who defected to other parties while still holding PDP mandates. The party maintains that such acts are not just betrayals but constitutional violations, especially when those elected on the PDP platform switch allegiance without relinquishing their positions. This includes the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy, and former governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who are all facing potential legal challenges from the party.
The leadership’s firm response comes amid growing frustration within the PDP, following waves of defections that have threatened its stability. To counter this, the National Working Committee has already dissolved state executives in affected areas and plans to appoint interim leaders who can steer the party back on track. Sources within the party describe this moment as critical, noting that unity and discipline are now the guiding principles for all members who wish to remain within its ranks.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki, a senior party figure, recently echoed the sentiment, urging those who are no longer committed to PDP’s vision to exit gracefully and allow those determined to rebuild the party to take charge. According to him, the party can only move forward if it is led by those with genuine commitment and courage to face the challenges ahead.
With the next general election on the horizon, the PDP is clearly drawing a line. Its message is simple: there is no room for disloyalty, and those who seek to undermine the party from within will be shown the door. The party is hoping that by reinforcing discipline, it can regain public confidence and present itself as a credible alternative to the ruling party in the coming years.
