The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed deep disappointment over the recent mass defections of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other elected officials and party leaders from Delta State to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party’s Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, made the remarks during a ceremony in Abuja, where he presented the Certificate of Return to Mr. Jude Ezenwafor, the PDP’s candidate for the Anambra Governorship election.
Damagum described the defections as painful, especially considering the party’s significant support for Delta State. He emphasized that the PDP had been generous to the state, from supporting the governor’s election to backing his predecessor, who also served as the party’s vice-presidential candidate. Despite the defection, Damagum stated that the party did nothing wrong to the defectors, noting that their departure was a personal decision, though one that hurt the party deeply.
The PDP leader pointed out that the party had faced similar challenges and remained resilient. He also revealed that the party leadership was working on establishing a caretaker committee for Delta, stressing the party’s commitment to regaining its structures in the state. Damagum expressed optimism for the 2027 elections, stating that it would not be about the number of governors a party holds, but about the well-being of Nigerians. He called on party members to unite and work together to overcome challenges and “rescue Nigeria.”
Additionally, Damagum congratulated Ezenwafor for securing the PDP’s nomination as the candidate for the Anambra election and expressed confidence in his victory. He assured Ezenwafor of the party’s full support and commitment to his campaign, encouraging him to consolidate on the gains.
Ezenwafor, in his remarks, expressed confidence in winning the upcoming Anambra election, referring to the state as a stronghold of the PDP. He also pledged to tackle insecurity in the state, citing his experience as a former senior special assistant on security. Accompanied by his wife, the PDP State Working Committee, and campaign officials, Ezenwafor reiterated his determination to move the state forward.
The PDP remains focused on regaining ground in Delta and preparing for the 2027 elections, despite the challenges posed by the defections.
