PDP Unshaken by Defection Rumours, Says Party Built on Ideals, Not Individuals

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed reports of impending defections by some of its governors, insisting that the party remains “strong, united, and people-rooted” despite what it described as “orchestrated distractions” by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, who also serves as Secretary of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee for the party’s upcoming 2025 National Convention, stated this during an interactive session with journalists on Thursday in Abuja.

Ologunagba said the flurry of attention surrounding the alleged defections was proof of the growing national interest in the PDP and its internal activities ahead of the convention.

“Let me say this clearly, the stories of defection or possible defection that are catching Nigerians’ attention only show that we have a political master,” he said.

He argued that the PDP’s foundation remains solid, stressing that it was built on enduring values, democratic ideals, and people-centred governance, not on the ambitions of individuals.

“Because the foundation of the PDP is strong, solid, and based on the people, we remain the only truly democratic party in this country, one built on ideas, convictions, and policies,” Ologunagba declared.

The party’s spokesman accused the APC of orchestrating media rumours and inducement campaigns aimed at destabilising opposition parties.

“We will not be distracted by orchestrated defections allegedly engineered by the APC,” he said, noting that such tactics had been used before and failed to weaken the PDP’s national appeal.

He maintained that the PDP’s structure had survived more turbulent political storms in its 26-year history.

Ologunagba reminded Nigerians that even high-profile exits in the past, including those of former presidents and vice-presidents, did not derail the PDP from its central mission of building an inclusive and democratic Nigeria.

“It’s on record that Vice-presidents and presidents have left this party before, but the PDP remains. That’s the message to Nigerians, that this is an institution built on ideals rooted in the people,” he said.

He described the forthcoming National Convention as a critical moment to reaffirm the PDP’s unity and renew its commitment to restoring Nigerians’ faith in governance.

The PDP is currently finalising arrangements for its 2025 National Convention, expected to bring together party leaders, governors, lawmakers, and stakeholders from across the country to review its internal reforms and strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ologunagba said the convention would reflect the party’s democratic character, adding that Nigerians should expect “robust engagement and renewed purpose.”