ABUJA, Nigeria – The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Umar Damagum, has expressed his deep disappointment following the wave of defections of party members and state government officials from Delta State to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Describing the move as painful and shocking, Damagum voiced his frustration at what he deemed a betrayal by individuals the party had supported for years.
In a statement made at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, Damagum reflected on the party’s significant contributions to the political landscape in Delta, especially the backing of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and his predecessor, who also ran as the PDP’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections.
He said, “It’s their decision, but the pain remains with us—not for personal reasons, but because of the immense support we’ve given Delta State. We least expected this kind of betrayal.”
The remarks were made during the presentation of the PDP’s Certificate of Return to Architect Jude Ezenwafor, the unopposed candidate for the Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025.
Damagum, accompanied by other party executives, also expressed concern over the APC’s political maneuvers, which he argued were destabilizing opposition parties and creating a difficult environment for the PDP.
“We cannot outplay God,” Damagum said, alluding to the APC’s efforts to weaken the opposition.
“We leave our faith in the hands of God and believe He will help us out of this great situation.”
Regarding the developments in Anambra, Damagum assured the party’s governorship candidate, Ezenwafor, of the PDP’s full support.
He highlighted the peaceful and orderly process through which Ezenwafor emerged as the candidate, a significant departure from previous contentious elections.
He expressed confidence that the PDP was now better positioned to win the governorship election in Anambra.
Damagum also addressed the media’s focus on Delta State’s defections, urging party members to remain hopeful and united despite the challenges.
He remarked, “The PDP can still make it,” drawing a parallel to Peter Obi’s strong performance in the 2023 presidential election despite lacking significant gubernatorial support.
He emphasized that the 2027 election would not be about governors or party leaders but about the people of Nigeria making their voices heard against what he described as poor governance under the current administration.
“There is no challenge that is insurmountable,” Damagum said, reinforcing his message of unity and resilience.
“People should not be deterred by these challenges. We will experience a lot of difficulties, but we are people of faith, and with God’s help, we will overcome.”
