PDP faces mass defections as crisis deepens

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) risks further mass defections unless urgent measures are taken to rescue it from its current decline, according to party chieftain Hon. Oladimeji Fabiyi.

In a statement issued on Monday, Fabiyi warned that without decisive action, the party’s struggles would worsen, making it difficult to mount a serious challenge against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. He urged PDP leaders to consider forming a coalition with other opposition parties to strengthen their chances.

Once a dominant force in Nigerian politics, ruling the country for 16 years, the PDP has seen its influence wane due to internal divisions and lack of strategic direction. Fabiyi lamented that the party has become a shadow of its former self, with many members and prospective candidates losing confidence in its future.

“The PDP is obviously having a tough and rough time moving forward to 2027,” he said. “The scale of defections and resignations in the coming months will be unprecedented unless the party urgently addresses its dwindling fortunes.”

He attributed the party’s decline to a lack of discipline, arguing that unresolved internal conflicts have driven members away. “A party that cannot instill self-discipline cannot make meaningful progress. The PDP has become undisciplined, and this has significantly stalled its growth,” he added.

Fabiyi also defended those leaving the party, stating that their decision was understandable given the PDP’s current instability. “It would be unfair to blame or question anyone who chooses to leave for genuine reasons,” he said.

With growing uncertainty about the party’s future, political analysts believe the PDP’s ability to resolve its internal crisis in the coming months will determine its relevance in the next election cycle.