PDP Governors Hold Emergency Meeting Amid Mass Defections to APC
Party Leadership Races Against Time to Prevent Collapse
Key developments:
- Former Governor Lamido predicts mass return of defectors from APC
- Tinubu administration accused of endangering national unity
- Governor Fubara hints at moving on from political crisis
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing its most severe crisis in recent years as a wave of high-profile defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) threatens its stability. PDP governors convened an emergency meeting in Abuja to address the escalating situation.
Emergency Meeting at Bauchi Governor’s Lodge
The closed-door meeting, held at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, brought together current and former PDP governors along with other prominent party figures. Notable attendees included:
- Acting National Chairman Iliya Damagum
- Former Bayelsa Governor Seriake Dickson
- Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang
- Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke
- FCT Minister Nyesom Wike
Critical Issues on the Agenda
The governors focused on several pressing matters:
- Strategies to curb ongoing defections to APC
- Preparation for the upcoming NEC meeting on May 27
- Plans for the party convention scheduled for August
- The position of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar
- Potential power-sharing arrangements for 2027 elections
Lamido’s Bold Prediction
Former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido made headlines with his prediction of a mass return of defectors to PDP, including APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje. Lamido criticized the Tinubu administration, stating:
“Nigeria is drifting to a tunnel of disintegration with mushroom cabals as implementers of bad policies.”
Fubara’s Surprising Statement
Amid the political turmoil, suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara made unexpected comments at a memorial service for elder statesman Edwin Clark:
“My spirit has already left there… I’m not desperate to return to office.”
The governor emphasized his commitment to peace and legal processes in resolving the political crisis in Rivers State.
2027 Election Calculations
The PDP leadership is reportedly considering several scenarios for the next presidential election:
- Fielding a Southern candidate with agreement for single term
- Allowing power to return North in 2031
- Potential coalition building with other opposition parties
The party faces significant challenges following high-profile defections including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former First Lady Patience Jonathan’s endorsement of President Tinubu for 2027.
Full credit to the original publisher: The Guardian