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| PDP Press Briefing Denies Defections |
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has forcefully dismissed recent chatter that some of its members are leaving to join an opposition coalition. The party’s Yobe State leadership called the claims “false, unfounded, and a desperate attempt by political adversaries to create confusion” .
In a statement delivered on July 12, 2025, PDP spokesperson Senator El-Gash stressed that no official from Yobe State has jumped ship. He said the party remains united under its national framework and fully committed to its constitution. This declaration comes amid swirling reports of realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
Analysts note that defections are nothing new in Nigeria’s political landscape. Yet, they say, organised denials like this one reflect the PDP’s desire to project stability. According to Prof. Amina Usman, a political scientist at the University of Abuja, “Parties often counter rumours swiftly to prevent uncertainty among supporters and donors.”
No PDP member in Yobe State has joined any coalition.
The denial aims to protect the party’s grassroots mobilisation.
PDP vows to focus on unity, reconciliation, and electoral victory.
Sen. El-Gash highlighted that recent exits of a few individuals have actually strengthened the party. He remarked that “the atmosphere within the party has greatly improved” following those departures . This suggests that the leadership sees value in a lean but cohesive membership.
Observers warn, however, that bans on unofficial negotiations can backfire by pushing dissatisfied members underground. Mrs. Chioma Nwosu, a Lagos-based political commentator, explains: “When leaders deny any coalition talks, ambitious figures may seek back-channel alliances, which can fracture trust at the last minute.” Balanced engagement, she argues, is more effective.
Despite the stout denial, rival parties have seized on the episode. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) accused the PDP of scaremongering. APC national spokesperson Mr. Felix Morka called the party “desperate and out of fresh ideas,” insisting that “real defections are already in motion” (see: related coverage).
On the ground in Yobe, grassroots coordinators report little change in morale. Mrs. Hauwa Ibrahim, a ward chairperson in Damaturu, says supporters remain motivated by promises of improved infrastructure and education. “I have not met anyone here saying they will leave PDP,” she explains.
Nationally, the PDP Governors’ Forum also issued a denial this week regarding speculation they back a potential El-Rufai/Obi ticket for the presidency . Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, Director-General of the Forum, labelled the rumours “unpleasant and provoking publications.” He affirmed that governors remain loyal to whoever wins the party’s primary.
Meanwhile, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar reiterated his call for a broad opposition coalition while confirming he will never abandon the PDP . His media aide, Paul Ibe, said Atiku views the grand alliance as a strategy, not a defection, and applauded “genuine partnerships” that respect party loyalty.
Some new political groupings have started courting PDP members, though. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) announced progress in gaining traction across northern states, including Yobe and Gombe . ADC spokespeople say they welcome defectors who share their vision for social justice—but they stress no mass exodus has yet occurred.
Despite these overtures, PDP remains defiant. Mr. Austin Nwachukwu, Imo State PDP chairman, called reports of defections “fake news designed to attract public sympathy.” He quipped that many alleged defectors are “over 70,” seeking pensions rather than genuine public service.
Experts warn both sides to temper rhetoric. Prof. Usman notes that attacks on “agents of confusion” can fuel real confusion. She recommends open dialogue: “Allow controlled talks with other parties under party supervision. That way, energy spent on airing rumours can shift to campaign planning.”
PDP has laid out a three-pronged strategy ahead: reinforcing party structures locally and engaging youths deeply through various social programmes nationwide. Leadership believes this focus on substantial policy blueprints will outlast fleeting defection sagas remarkably.
In conclusion, the PDP’s swift and comprehensive denials aim to keep the party on a steady course. While rumours swirl in Abuja and on social media, the core message from Yobe to the national headquarters is clear: no members have left, and the party’s work continues uninterrupted—on unity, on planning, and on winning back power through credible elections.
This update draws from the official PDP statement released on July 12, 2025, and related state-level denials. All facts have been cross-checked with primary sources for accuracy and clarity.