Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has expressed deep disappointment over the recent wave of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC), including that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other elected and party officials in the state.
Speaking in Abuja during the presentation of the Certificate of Return to Mr. Jude Ezenwafor, the PDP’s candidate for the upcoming Anambra governorship election, Damagum described the development as both painful and unexpected, particularly considering the strong support the party has consistently provided to Delta State.
“It is truly disheartening and regrettable,” Damagum said. “Of all states, Delta should not have taken this path, given the generosity and backing the party has extended over the years.”
He emphasized that the defectors had not cited any wrongdoing by the PDP in their departure messages, noting instead that their grievances were not based on any failure of the party.
“It’s their decision, but the pain is on us—not because of any loss, but because of how much we’ve invested in Delta, from the sitting governor to his predecessor, who was also our vice presidential candidate,” he added. “This was the last thing we expected.”
Despite the setback, Damagum reaffirmed the PDP’s resilience, pointing out that the party has weathered worse challenges and remains strong.
He also revealed that the party leadership is working swiftly to reestablish control of its structures in Delta by forming a caretaker committee.
“We will move quickly to reclaim our structures,” he stated.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Damagum asserted that the outcome would not be determined by how many governors a party has but by the will of the Nigerian people.
He urged party members to remain united and committed to the goal of rebuilding the nation, stressing that no obstacle is insurmountable.
Damagum also congratulated Ezenwafor on his emergence as the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate in Anambra, expressing strong confidence in the party’s chances of securing victory in the upcoming election.