ABUJA, Nigeria — The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, says the party is not rattled by the recent wave of defections of its key figures, insisting that the opposition platform remains “intact” and ready to confront the ruling (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Addressing journalists at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday, July 3, 2025, Damagum acknowledged the departures of high-ranking members, including Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, and Umo Eno, his Akwa Ibom counterpart, who defected to the APC in April and June, respectively.
Also among those who have exited or distanced themselves from the party are former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and media entrepreneur Dele Momodu, all of whom have joined forces with the newly adopted opposition coalition platform, the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
But Damagum downplayed the significance of the defections.
“To those that are contemplating [leaving] — they should not. They have no place, and there’s nowhere that would be as accommodating as our party,” he said.
“But if they feel they want to [defect], I will wish them good luck. But I know they will run back.”
The PDP chair also issued a stern warning to party members who are “demarketing” the PDP through public criticism or covert support for rival coalitions, stating that such individuals will face disciplinary measures.
“We are drawing a line for those who demarket the party. We are watching them and will take appropriate actions at the right time,” Damagum said.
He further insisted that the PDP remains a cohesive and resilient force despite its internal disagreements and the allure of coalition politics.
“To our members, I want to bring good tidings that your party is very intact. To APC, I want to send a message that you can continue to harass and buy our members. But the 2027 election is between Nigerians and you,” he said.
Reaffirming the PDP’s role in strengthening democracy, Damagum said the party is committed to people-centred governance and open dialogue.
“For democracy to thrive, people must say their minds. People should be listened to, and policies should be people-orientated.”
The acting chairman also pointed to the PDP’s long-standing ability to manage internal disputes, saying it remains one of the party’s strongest assets.
“We have mastered the art of conflict resolution. This is what you can see in this National Working Committee (NWC). We know how to resolve our problems.”
Damagum’s remarks come as the 2027 election cycle begins to take shape, with opposition parties coalescing under the ADC and the APC consolidating its grip on power.
