According to Vanguard, growing discontent within the ranks of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly in its traditional strongholds of the South-East and South-South regions, has become a source of concern for party leaders. The recent exodus of prominent members has underscored internal challenges that need urgent resolution.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a party leader acknowledged the worrisome trend, stating, “We can't deny our concerns. The South-East, South-South, and even the North-Central have been reliable strongholds for us, but this loyalty has waned since 2015. We must address our internal issues sincerely if we hope to regain our footing. The truth is, this party wasn't meant for opposition.”
Former Director General of the Voice of Nigeria, Osita Okechukwu, attributed the PDP's predicament to its own actions, emphasizing the breach of the presidential rotation convention between the North and South. He asserted, “As long as the PDP disregards this convention, it will remain in opposition. The solution to their problems lies within.”
The party's influence, especially in the South-East, suffered a blow when former Ebonyi State Governor, now Minister of Works, David Umahi, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2023 elections. His departure, citing the PDP's failure to zone the presidential ticket to the South-East, highlighted deep-seated grievances among leaders from the region who felt marginalized despite years of loyalty.
Additionally, the resignation of founding member and former National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, and the silence from the national leadership regarding former Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu's legal challenges further fueled disillusionment among party stalwarts in the South-East.
The situation was compounded by former Anambra Governor, Mr. Peter Obi's departure to the Labour Party (LP), where he quickly garnered support, exacerbating the PDP's struggle to retain its stronghold in the region.