The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is preparing to restructure its South-South zonal and state leadership in a bid to purge disloyal members and prevent further defections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A senior member of the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC), who spoke anonymously to Sunday PUNCH, said the overhaul is part of efforts to reposition the party following a wave of high-profile defections.
“The party is clearly displeased with recent developments.
These defections cannot go unchallenged,” the source stated. “Following the exit of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the NWC resolved to challenge their defection in court. That process is currently underway.
As for Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, who left on Saturday, the party will respond after the Sallah break.”
According to the official, the defections have significantly disrupted the party’s internal structure, as many defectors still maintain loyalists in key leadership positions at both state and zonal levels.
“The time has come to clean house,” the source added. “We are set to reorganize the South-South leadership to ensure that only committed party members remain in control.
There is no longer room for political opportunists.”
Since the 2023 general elections, the PDP has struggled with internal strife, which has led to a series of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
On April 23, Governor Oborevwori, Okowa, and several other top figures officially left the party.
Governor Eno and other officials followed suit last weekend after extended discussions with APC leaders.
The spate of defections has weakened the PDP’s image and electoral strength ahead of the 2027 polls.
Reacting to Governor Eno’s departure, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor urged other disloyal members to exit quickly so the party can focus on rebuilding.
“No political party is happy to lose key assets, especially a sitting governor from a strategic state like Akwa Ibom,” Osadolor said. “But Nigeria needs patriots dedicated to nation-building, not politicians chasing personal ambition.
It’s unfortunate that individuals once seen as models of integrity have failed to live up to expectations.”
He specifically criticized Eno, a cleric, for putting political survival above public service. “Given his background, we expected a governance style rooted in compassion and truth.
But clearly, his priority is securing a second term, not the welfare of Nigerians,” he said.
Despite the setbacks, Osadolor expressed hope that the situation could ultimately strengthen the party’s resolve.
“I’ve said it before — those who want to leave should go now.
If they need help, they can come to Wadata Plaza and we’ll be glad to escort them out. It’s better they leave than stay behind to sabotage the party.
Those of us who remain are ready to rebuild. All hope is not lost.”