In a significant political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, no fewer than 4,000 members of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), including senior party officials, have defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State.
Among the prominent defectors are the NDC Deputy Chairman, Mr Okechukwu Idenyi, and the party’s Secretary, Barrister Solomon Adum.
The defectors were formally received on Saturday during a political rally held in Isu Community, Onicha Local Government Area, by the Ebonyi State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Hon. Chukwuma Igwe.
Addressing the gathering, Igwe described the mass defection as a major boost to the PDP’s growing political influence in the state, noting that the experience, capacity, and grassroots support of the new members would significantly strengthen the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 elections.
He assured the defectors of equal opportunities within the party and urged them to work harmoniously with existing members to advance the PDP’s vision for the state.
“We assure the defectors of equal opportunities within the party. We urge you to work collectively with existing members to advance the party’s objectives and provide a credible alternative for the people of Ebonyi in 2027,” Igwe said.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, the former NDC Secretary, Barrister Solomon Adum, said their decision to join the PDP followed extensive consultations with party members and supporters across the state.
According to him, the move was informed by their confidence in the PDP’s commitment to democratic governance, unity, and sustainable development.
“Our decision was driven by our confidence in the PDP’s vision for democratic governance, unity, and sustainable development in the state,” Adum stated.
He further pledged the commitment of the defectors to strengthening the PDP’s grassroots support ahead of future political activities.
“We are committed to working with the leadership of the PDP to expand the party’s grassroots support. We shall also promote peace, internal democracy, and issue-based politics in our collective efforts to reposition the party,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the PDP’s candidate for the Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency, Mr Felix Igboke, described the PDP as “a moving train” and called on the new members to remain steadfast and committed to the party’s success.
He urged them to work diligently towards securing victory for the PDP in the 2027 general elections, stressing that dedication and hard work would be rewarded.
“The PDP is a party built on sustainability. The 2027 general election presents an opportunity for us to work together to secure victory. I warmly welcome all the defectors and remain confident that, united, we shall emerge victorious. Ours is a moving train,” Igboke said.
The latest defection is expected to reshape the political landscape in Onicha Local Government Area and strengthen the PDP’s mobilisation efforts as political parties begin to position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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