Byline: Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, James Abraham, Hussaini Ibrahim, Bola Bamigbola
Despite a wave of high-profile defections rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), key opposition figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Senate President Bukola Saraki are leading a renewed push to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The defection of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), triggered strong reactions from both the Presidency and opposition coalitions.
Coalition Holds Firm Despite Presidential Taunts
Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information, Bayo Onanuga, earlier mocked Atiku’s coalition, calling it a “leprous group” after Okowa’s defection. However, Salihu Lukman, a former APC Vice Chairman and now a key opposition coalition member, dismissed the comments, saying the defections were long-anticipated.
“The PDP is a shadow of its former self,” Lukman noted, adding that more defections were expected. He emphasized the coalition’s commitment to providing a robust alternative in 2027 and rectifying mistakes from both Buhari and Tinubu administrations.
Ganduje Welcomes NNPP Defectors in Kano
Meanwhile, APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje formally welcomed key defectors from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), including Senator Kawu Sumaila and several top politicians from Kano. Discontent over alleged marginalization by NNPP leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso, was cited as a key reason for their exit.
Photographs from the event showed a jubilant atmosphere, with defectors holding APC flags and exchanging handshakes with Ganduje.
Osun NNPP Chairman Predicts More PDP Exits
In Osun State, NNPP Chairman Dr. Tosin Odeyemi predicted further PDP exits, following the defection of Hon. Wole Oke, a federal lawmaker. Odeyemi accused Governor Ademola Adeleke of poor governance and surrounding himself with “bootlickers,” warning that many PDP members were “suffering and smiling.”
The PDP dismissed Odeyemi’s comments, accusing defectors of seeking personal gain. “Those who left are driven by greed, not principle,” the party said in a statement.
Wole Oke Predicts PDP Defeat in Constituency
Speaking on a local radio show, Hon. Wole Oke declared that PDP would suffer a “crushing defeat” in his constituency in future elections. He alleged neglect by the state government and stated he had consulted constituents before dumping the party.
“PDP won’t get 500 votes in Esa-Oke,” he boldly claimed, adding that more voters would reject the party in other towns like Ikeji Arakeji and Ipetu-Ijesa.
Plateau PDP Chair Unshaken
In contrast, Plateau State PDP Chairman, Chris Hassan, downplayed the impact of national defections, assuring that Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s developmental strides would keep the party strong. He called on party members to stay calm and reaffirmed PDP’s commitment to good governance.
Hassan also condemned recent attacks in Bokkos and Bassa LGAs, praising the governor’s grassroots-driven security approach.
Saraki Calls for Party Rebuilding, Warns Against One-Party State
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki echoed support for party revival, urging defectors to leave without drama.
“Let those leaving do so, and let us who remain focus on rebuilding,” Saraki said. “A one-party state is dangerous for our diverse society.”
He emphasized the need for strong opposition to sustain democracy and keep the ruling party accountable.
