The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) National Working Committee (NWC) and the Governors Forum will hold a strategic meeting on May 11 to address the wave of defections and other pressing challenges confronting the party.
A source confirmed the development to Punch, revealing that the meeting will focus on strategies to retain members, address the issue of the National Secretary, and discuss other matters affecting the party.
It will be recalled that on April 23, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, along with his predecessor and PDP’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa, officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The source noted that the outcome of the upcoming meeting between the Governors Forum and the National Working Committee will be pivotal in shaping the party’s future direction.
He said, “The meetings lasted for quite some time due to the wide range of issues discussed. We examined several matters affecting the party, and Senator Samuel Anyanwu attended and addressed the NWC gathering.
“Some NWC members who couldn’t be physically present participated virtually, ensuring a thorough discussion, especially concerning the recent defections. After evaluating the circumstances surrounding the defections of Okowa and the Delta State Governor, we concluded their decisions were driven by personal interests.
“The party had treated them fairly, making their defection unexpected. We’ve agreed to convene a meeting with the governors on May 11 at a location yet to be decided, to further deliberate on these defections.
“As for the National Secretary matter, we resolved to consider the governors’ recommendations. However, many of us observed that their position complicates the issue, given that the Supreme Court ruling favors Anyanwu. These topics, along with the defections and others, will be addressed again during the meeting with the governors. Regardless, we remain united and committed to moving the party forward.”
