Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has reassured members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) that the recent defections of former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and incumbent Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) do not spell the end of the party. Saraki urged those intending to leave the party to do so quickly so that loyal and committed members can focus on rebuilding and repositioning the PDP to effectively serve as a viable opposition. He emphasized that a one-party state would be dangerous for Nigeria’s multi-ethnic democracy.

Meanwhile, APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, has expressed confidence that the 2027 general elections are already in favor of the APC. Speaking during a reception for defectors from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano, Ganduje stated that more political figures are joining the ruling party because of the credibility of President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and economic reforms. He cited the defection of the Delta State Governor, his cabinet, state lawmakers, and even the former PDP vice presidential candidate as a testament to APC’s growing strength, declaring that “2027 is a done deal.”

In response, Acting PDP National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, acknowledged that while the defections were disappointing, they were not unexpected. He announced the immediate plan to reorganize the party’s structure in Delta State, stressing that winning elections is not solely about having governors but about having the people’s support. Damagum cited the example of Peter Obi, who had no governors in 2023 but still made significant electoral gains, and assured party members that PDP would not be intimidated but would continue to rebuild ahead of 2027.

The Osun State chapter of the PDP also reacted to the defection of Hon. Wole Oke, a member of the House of Representatives, stating that his departure was not a surprise. According to Osun PDP Chairman Hon. Sunday Bisi, Oke’s decision reflected a personal political pattern of seeking favor rather than engaging in healthy internal competition. He emphasized that the party remains strong and unshaken in Osun.

In Edo State, the PDP reiterated its unity and resolve to reclaim the governorship mandate it believes was taken from Dr. Asue Ighodalo. Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, reassured party members that the PDP is focused and intact. Veteran politician Chief Tom Ikimi added that the 

APC had become a hijacked platform and that preserving the PDP is essential to safeguarding democracy in Nigeria.

Despite the wave of defections, a coalition of opposition parties working towards building a strong front against the APC in 2027 has stated that these moves were anticipated and would not derail their mission. Dr. Salihu Lukman, former APC National Vice Chairman (North West), noted that some PDP governors are already collaborating with President Tinubu, but insisted that their coalition is progressing steadily. He affirmed that Nigerians would be presented with a credible alternative in the next general elections and that the coalition’s structure would soon be made public.