PDP BoT Chairman: We’re Sad Yet Stronger After Oborevwori, Okowa’s Shocking Defections

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Adolphus Wabara, has addressed the recent defections of the party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and several other key figures in Delta State to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Wabara maintained that there is no cause for concern, stressing that although the PDP would “surely miss” the defectors, their exit would not undermine the party’s chances in the 2027 elections. He described the defections as “a blessing in disguise,” predicting that the APC would eventually suffer internal crises as a result.

“The PDP will have the last laugh because soon, the APC will implode. Those defecting will eventually attempt to displace longtime APC members, leading the displaced members to seek refuge in the PDP,” Wabara stated.

The BoT Chairman noted he was unsurprised by the defections, attributing them to personal ambitions, dwindling faith in the electoral system, and politicians’ desire to secure second terms.

“It was anticipated, and more defections could still happen. But there’s no need for panic—that’s the nature of politics. Some defect for a second term bid, others for protection,” he explained.

Despite the high-profile exits, Wabara expressed confidence that the ruling APC would not have an easy ride in 2027, suggesting that the electorate, fed up with APC’s governance failures, would exercise their power wisely at the polls.

“This is more about leaders moving, not the grassroots. And even then, not every leader is switching sides. Ultimately, Nigerians—not political parties—will determine the 2027 presidential election,” he emphasized.

Wabara also addressed the growing distrust in the electoral process, suggesting that fears of election rigging might have motivated the defections to the ruling party.

He added, “Those defecting are worried that the 2027 elections may not reflect the people’s true will. However, Nigerians will not allow broad-day electoral robbery to repeat itself.”