2027: PDP threatens to act against defecting members

By Lateef Ibrahim

The Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), has warned members against contemplating defection, vowing to take decisive action against those undermining the party.

The Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, made this declaration during a press briefing in Abuja yesterday, following the meeting of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).

Damagum, who spoke with newsmen alongside other NWC members, stressed the PDP’s unity and resilience ahead of the 2027 general elections, emphasising that the party remains strong and intact despite internal challenges, urging members to remain loyal and avoid actions that could weaken the PDP from within.

“If you are a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, we are drawing a line for those who go out to demarket the party. We are watching, and we will take appropriate action at the right time,” Damagum warned.

The Acting National Chairman also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, of attempting to lure PDP members through intimidation and inducements.

Damagum also slammed the APC-led government for its failure to address key national issues such as hunger, insecurity, and the arbitrary expulsion of citizens, urging it to reflect on its actions and correct course.

He further described the PDP as the only political party in Nigeria with the resilience and structure to withstand turbulent times.

“We are in a democracy, and the voices of the people must be heard. As I’ve said before, we are not a conquered people. We are law-abiding citizens who deserve to be listened to,” Damagum added.

“To those contemplating leaving, I advise against it. There is no party as accommodating as ours. But if they choose to go, I wish them well, though I am confident they will return,” he said.

The party’s next National Executive Committee, NEC, meeting is scheduled for 23–25 July, where strategies for the 2027 elections are expected to be further deliberated.