The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has attributed the recent wave of defections by some of its governors to “greed, avarice, and selfish ambition,” insisting that Nigerians—not political elites—will determine the country’s direction in 2027.
Gossip News Now reports that the opposition party emphasized that political parties are sustained by the people, not by governors, adding that those abandoning the platform that brought them to power will eventually regret their decisions.
Since the 2023 general elections, four PDP governors — Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Peter Mbah (Enugu), and Douye Diri (Bayelsa) — have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The party has also lost several top figures, including its 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate Ifeanyi Okowa, and other key stakeholders.
“Defections Motivated by Greed” — PDP
During an interview on Arise Television, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, dismissed the defections as acts driven purely by personal interest.
“To the best of my knowledge and that of most Nigerians, there’s no compelling reason for any governor—especially one serving a second term like in Bayelsa—to dump the party that produced him.
You can’t find any justification other than covetousness, greed, and avarice,” Abdullahi stated.
He maintained that despite facing internal challenges, the PDP remains strong and credible ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Our party is in good stead. Like every other political party, we have internal issues, but we’ve resolved major ones that could have undermined our ability to function as a credible opposition,” he added.
Governors’ Aides Defend Their Bosses
Reacting to the PDP’s criticism, Dan Nwomeh, Special Adviser on Media to Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, described the party’s response as “understandable but misplaced.”
“The governor has explained why he left the PDP—it’s all in his statement. We understand the PDP won’t be happy, but we can’t remain in a party where our voices don’t count.
Once you leave, they’ll always find something to say. That’s politics,” Nwomeh said.
“Good Riddance to Bad Rubbish” — PDP Spokesman
Abdullahi, however, maintained that the PDP is not distracted by the defections, revealing that its focus remains on the upcoming national convention in Ibadan.
“These few elements are driven by self-interest and the coercion of the ruling party. Beyond that, there’s no reason for their actions. To us, it’s good riddance to bad rubbish,” he asserted.
He added that the departure of some governors presents an opportunity for the PDP to “purge itself of disloyal elements” ahead of the convention.
“Many Nigerians are wondering what could justify these defections, because the PDP remains stable. The only explanation is selfishness and greed,” Abdullahi said.
He further argued that a few defections do not define the PDP’s destiny, saying:
“This is no longer about PDP versus APC—it’s about APC versus Nigerians. Let them do their worst; we’ve survived worse storms before.”
PDP Counters Claims of Marginalization
Abdullahi also rejected Governor Mbah’s claim that the South East has been marginalized within the PDP despite years of loyalty.
“This is the same party that produced five Senate Presidents from the South East. Every state in the region has produced one.
The PDP also gave the zone top ministerial positions and global names like Okonjo-Iweala. So, what marginalization is he talking about?” he queried.
He accused Mbah of neglecting party activities since assuming office.
“In the last four years that I’ve been in the PDP, I’ve never seen Peter Mbah attend any NEC meeting or major party event in Abuja.
If you claim the PDP has failed to provide leadership, as governor, you’re the custodian of that leadership in your state. So, that’s an admission of your own failure,” Abdullahi said.
Swipe at Former Governor Ugwuanyi
Abdullahi also criticized former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, accusing him of diminishing his political relevance.
“It’s disappointing that a former governor and one-time federal lawmaker has reduced himself to a personal assistant—literally carrying bags for a serving minister. That’s simply shameless,” he concluded.
