The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has responded to the recent defection of Governor Peter Mbah to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The party insists that it remains strong despite losing key members.
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The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, made the statement on Wednesday, emphasizing that the party is not “in coma” and is working steadily to overcome internal challenges.
His remarks came after Mbah and his cabinet members officially left the PDP for the APC on Tuesday.
Speaking on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ program, Ologunagba acknowledged that the party faces difficulties but downplayed concerns about the impact of the governor’s exit.
“The PDP is not in coma, it’s not in a vegetative state.
“Yes, we have challenges, some of which are external, more damages are the ones within, but again, we are working that rope surely towards convention,” he said.
He added, “Our strength lies in the people, not in individual governors. Even with defections, our ideology, our policies, and our commitment to Nigerians remain intact.”
Ologunagba also reassured party members, stating, “We understand the concerns of our supporters, and I want to assure them that PDP is resilient.
“ Our foundation is built on values, not personalities. Those who leave do not diminish the party; they only challenge us to be stronger.”
He noted that while defections like those of Mbah, as well as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State in recent months, may attract attention, they do not define the party’s resilience.
“The PDP has faced challenges before and emerged stronger.
“This is another test, and we are confident that we will continue to thrive because of our people and our unwavering mission,” Ologunagba added.
The PDP spokesman stressed that the party remains focused on its mission and the upcoming party convention, reinforcing confidence in its ability to regroup and maintain relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Despite the high-profile defections, the PDP leadership insists that the party’s foundation is built on its people, and it will continue to work through challenges to maintain its influence across Nigeria.