By JOHN Audu.
•• Notable APC Defections to PDP in Bauchi
Mohammed Affirms Commitment to PDP’s Vision for National Development
The national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) declared yesterday that, amid widespread hunger and poverty in Nigeria, the party is well-positioned to produce the next president and increase its number of governors beyond the current 12 in the upcoming 2027 elections.
During a visit to Governor Duoye Diri at his residence in Sampou, Bayelsa State, PDP National Treasurer Alhaji Ahmed Yayare emphasized the party’s potential to reclaim power from the All Progressives Congress (APC). He urged party members to unite, asserting that PDP remains the only viable opposition party capable of leading Nigeria toward a better future.
In Bauchi State, Governor Senator Bala Mohammed reiterated his dedication to advancing PDP’s vision and contributing to national development during a condolence visit from the National Working Committee (NWC) following the death of his stepmother.
Additionally, in a significant political shift, thousands of former APC members, led by youth leader Usman Adamu, officially joined PDP in Bauchi, marking the first major defection of the new year. Yayare noted that the current economic hardships have fueled widespread disenchantment, positioning PDP to gain more governorships in 2027.
Yayare stated, “If PDP does not take over the leadership of the country, it could signify the end of democracy in Nigeria. The cries of hunger and poverty are too loud to ignore. The 36 states are yearning for the return of PDP, and the APC struggles to campaign due to public discontent.”
He called on governors to unite and support the party’s mission to reclaim power, emphasizing the importance of their collective efforts in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
The NWC’s visit also served to express condolences over the passing of Deputy Inspector General of Police (rtd) Moses Jituboh and Commissioner for Women Affairs Mrs. Elizabeth Bidei. PDP National Secretary Udeh Okoye affirmed the NWC’s commitment to repositioning the party, demonstrating to Nigerians that PDP can offer quality leadership.
Diri echoed the need for unity among governors, stating, “We must work closely together and make decisions that benefit the party and the people. If PDP falters under our watch, posterity will not forgive us.” He stressed the importance of internal cohesion and the need for a collective effort to strengthen the party.
In his remarks, Governor Mohammed pledged to collaborate closely with Okoye to further the party’s objectives. He expressed gratitude for the NWC’s support during his time of mourning, reaffirming his commitment to advancing PDP’s vision for national development.
Meanwhile, Usman Adamu’s defection ceremony in Azare, Bauchi State, attracted a large crowd, signaling a positive shift for PDP. Adamu cited the transformative leadership of Senator Bala Mohammed as a key factor in his decision to join the party, stating, “I am here to contribute to the development of the state and support the current administration in delivering more dividends of democracy to the people.”
PDP Bauchi State Chairman Sama’ila Adamu Burga welcomed the new members, assuring them of full membership rights and privileges, and encouraged collaboration with the state government to further enhance development efforts.
