The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Umar Ilyas Damagum, is optimistic that members who recently left the party to join political coalitions will soon find their way back home.

Speaking after a three-hour meeting of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) at the party’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, Damagum assured party faithful that the PDP remains the most welcoming platform for genuine democrats.

“This party is very, very intact,” he said, flanked by the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and other top officials. “We have mastered the art of resolving our conflicts internally. Our leaders have come together to give us this strong leadership, and the NWC is more united than ever.”

The NWC, which just resolved lingering internal disagreements, also announced plans to hold its crucial National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting — along with other key party organ gatherings — as a three-day event from July 23 to 25.

Addressing concerns over recent defections, Damagum urged members not to be swayed by temporary frustrations or by the allure of rival parties. He sent a strong message to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that attempts to lure or intimidate PDP members would not weaken the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

“To the APC, I say continue to harass and buy our members if you wish, but the 2027 election is between you and Nigerians. It’s best you start correcting your ways now,” Damagum cautioned.

He also lamented the current state of the nation, pointing to hunger, insecurity, and what he described as the “arbitrary expulsion of Nigerians,” as problems that have become overwhelming under the present government.

The atmosphere at the PDP secretariat was notably warm. Party leaders who were at odds just weeks ago were seen exchanging pleasantries. Present at the meeting were the Vice Chairman (South East), Chief Ali Odefa; National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba; Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Timothy Arapaja; Deputy National Secretary, Architect Setonji Koshoedo; and National Legal Adviser, Alhaji Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN).

Although Damagum declined to take questions from journalists after his briefing, he left no doubt that the PDP is gearing up strongly, determined to remain a key force in Nigeria’s political landscape.