PDP Moves to Restructure South-South Leadership, Eliminate Disloyal Members Amid Wave of Defections

PDP to Restructure South-South Leadership, Weed Out Disloyal Members Amid Defections

In a decisive move to restore internal stability and prepare for the 2027 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is set to overhaul its South-South zonal and state leadership structures. The action is aimed at purging disloyal elements and preventing further defections to rival parties.

A member of the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC), who spoke to Sunday PUNCH anonymously, revealed that the planned restructuring follows growing concerns over recent high-profile defections. "This is no longer business as usual," the source stated. “The exit of prominent figures like Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former governor Ifeanyi Okowa prompted the NWC to initiate legal proceedings. Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, who defected on Saturday, will face party action after the Sallah break.”

The source added that defections have disrupted the party’s internal dynamics, especially with loyalists of defected leaders still occupying strategic roles at state and zonal levels. “We must now sanitize our ranks. The South-South leadership will be restructured to ensure only truly committed members remain. There’s no room for opportunists who abandon the party at the first sign of trouble,” the NWC member said.

The PDP has been grappling with internal disunity since its loss in the 2023 elections, and the recent wave of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has further eroded its standing and electoral strength.

Reacting to Governor Eno’s defection, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, acknowledged the setback but urged disloyal members to exit swiftly. “No party wants to lose key assets, especially a sitting governor from a vital state like Akwa Ibom,” he said. “But at this point, those who no longer believe in the PDP should leave quickly, so genuine members can focus on rebuilding.”

Osadolor criticised Eno’s move, describing it as self-serving and contrary to the expectations set by his clerical background. “Given his history, many expected him to govern with compassion and integrity. Sadly, it seems his priority is political survival, not public service.”

Despite the turmoil, Osadolor expressed confidence in the PDP’s ability to recover. “Let them go now rather than stay as saboteurs. Those of us who remain are ready to reposition the party. The future isn’t lost,” he said.

The party’s restructuring plans signal a more assertive stance as it attempts to regain its footing and re-energize its base ahead of 2027.