PDP governors set to decamp to APC ahead of 2027 elections

There are strong indications that more governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may be planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Vanguard gathered that the planned defections may be linked to unresolved crises within the PDP, particularly at the National Working Committee (NWC), state, and zonal levels.

According to sources, some PDP governors have started making moves by visiting President Bola Tinubu in Lagos and inviting him to commission projects in their states. It is believed that these engagements provide an opportunity for ongoing discussions about potential defections.

The chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, is reportedly playing a key role in wooing the PDP governors as part of efforts to strengthen the APC’s base ahead of the next elections.

Delta Governor’s Alleged Defection Plans Sparks Reactions

In Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s recent call for support for President Tinubu has fueled rumors of his potential defection to the APC. Speaking through his Commissioner for Information, Ifeanyi Osuoza, at a workshop in Asaba, Oborevwori emphasized his administration’s commitment to supporting the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the benefit of Deltans.

This has prompted concerned PDP leaders in Delta to demand clarification from the governor regarding his loyalty to the party. In an open letter signed by Theophilus Ekiyor, Ochuko Oghenekome, and Ezekiel Chukwudi, the group expressed concern over reports that the governor is planning to switch parties.

The letter alleged that Governor Oborevwori has been engaging top presidential aides, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to facilitate a meeting with President Tinubu to finalize his defection.

“We, the concerned Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta State, are compelled to address you in this open letter regarding the very disturbing rumours of your alleged plans to defect to the All Progressives Congress, APC,” the letter stated.

“We, therefore, demand prompt clarification from you to put us in the picture. A delayed response could be considered as glaring evidence of your compromised position,” the group warned.

Tinubu Praises Enugu Governor for Development Efforts

President Bola Tinubu, during his first official visit to Enugu State, commended Governor Peter Mbah for his leadership style and commitment to development. Tinubu described Mbah as a focused and result-oriented leader who has made significant technological advancements and attracted private sector investments to the state.

“I salute Peter Mbah for his commitment to development. You’ve built a solid team, and I’ve reviewed a number of things with you in Abuja. You’ve impressed me with the technological advancements in the state and the support you’ve garnered from the private sector,” Tinubu said during the visit.

Plateau Governor Among Early Visitors to Tinubu

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State was also among the first PDP governors to visit President Tinubu at his residence in Bourdillon, Lagos, during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. The visit further fueled speculation about possible defections from the PDP to the APC.

Growing Concern Over PDP Governors’ Loyalty

As more PDP governors engage with the presidency, concerns are growing within the party over the loyalty of its key members. PDP stakeholders have warned against what they describe as self-serving political moves and have called for unity within the party to avoid further losses ahead of the next general elections.