FULL LIST: PDP Down To Eight Governors As Defections Hit Enugu, Bayelsa
Abuja — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suffered a major setback as fresh waves of defections have hit the party, reducing its number of serving governors from ten to eight. The latest political shifts reportedly occurred in Enugu and Bayelsa states, where key political figures, including governors, announced their defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reliable sources confirmed that the defections were sealed after weeks of high-level meetings between the defecting governors and top APC leaders, including members of President Bola Tinubu’s inner circle. The move is seen as part of a broader realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development has further weakened the PDP’s control across the federation, leaving the opposition party with just eight sitting governors — its lowest number since the return of democracy in 1999.
Political analysts say the latest defections could reshape the country’s political landscape and tilt future elections in favor of the ruling party, particularly in the South-East and South-South regions, which were once considered PDP strongholds.
According to official reports, the PDP now retains control in the following eight states:
- Oyo State – Governor Seyi Makinde
- Osun State – Governor Ademola Adeleke
- Bauchi State – Governor Bala Mohammed
- Adamawa State – Governor Ahmadu Fintiri
- Taraba State – Governor Agbu Kefas
- Plateau State – Governor Caleb Mutfwang
- Delta State – Governor Sheriff Oborevwori
- Edo State – Governor Godwin Obaseki
The governors of Enugu and Bayelsa, who were among the party’s strong pillars in the South-East and South-South, reportedly defected to the APC citing the need for “collaboration with the Federal Government to accelerate development” in their respective states.
In Enugu, the governor was received at the Presidential Villa by top APC leaders, where he declared his decision to join hands with President Tinubu in “building a united and prosperous Nigeria.” Similarly, in Bayelsa, the state governor confirmed his move during a stakeholders’ meeting, stating that his decision was driven by “the need to align with the center for the progress of the Niger Delta.”
The PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) has expressed disappointment over the development, accusing the APC of using federal influence and inducements to destabilize the opposition. In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, the party said the defections were “betrayals of the people’s mandate” and vowed to rebuild its base ahead of 2027.
The defections in Enugu and Bayelsa have also swept across state assemblies and executive councils. In Enugu State, Governor Peter Mbah, his deputy Uche Ugwu, Speaker Rt. Hon. Uche Ugwu, Majority Leader Hon. Jane Eneh, and several commissioners—including Aka Eze (Information), Peter Okonkwo (Works), and Dr. Chika Odo (Health)—officially joined the APC alongside local government chairmen and ward executives.
In Bayelsa State, Governor Douye Diri, his deputy Sen. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Speaker Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, Majority Leader Hon. Ebi Ben Ololo, and key cabinet members such as Ayibaina Duba (Information), Dr. Perekeme Bertola (Works), and Iselema Gbaranbiri (Environment) also defected, bringing a large contingent of aides and grassroots leaders with them.
The mass movement of these political figures is viewed as one of the most significant realignments in recent years, further consolidating the APC’s growing influence across the South-East and South-South regions.
“Our party remains strong and committed to democratic values. No amount of political blackmail or intimidation can destroy the PDP’s legacy,” the statement read in part.
The APC, however, welcomed the defectors, describing their move as “a testament to President Tinubu’s inclusive leadership and commitment to national unity.”
Political observers believe more defections could occur in the coming months, as pressure mounts on opposition figures to align with the ruling party’s agenda before the next election cycle
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