PDP TOUTS RESILIENCE AMID DEFECTIONS, SAYS PARTY REMAINS NIGERIA’S BEST HOPE

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared that despite internal conflicts and a wave of defections, it remains Nigeria’s strongest and most credible political platform. The assertion came during a stakeholders’ meeting in Benin City that drew major PDP leaders, including former governor Lucky Igbinedion and national stalwart Chief Tom Ikimi.
Chief Ikimi strongly criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of being hijacked and converted into a tool for personal ambition. “The APC attack on the South-South region has been intense recently,” he said, referencing the recent defections in Delta State, including those of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.
He warned that the APC’s long-term aim was the destruction of the PDP to establish a one-party state. “It is clear to me that the only way forward for our country now is the survival of the PDP,” he emphasized.
Edo PDP Caretaker Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, also addressed the party’s internal rifts, including the formation of a parallel caretaker committee by Dan Orbih. He remained optimistic: “The future is bright. Don’t worry about those leaving us, they never had PDP at heart.”
Publicity Secretary Chris Nehikhare framed the moment as a necessary period of reflection: “Every serious political organisation must occasionally pause, reflect, and recommit to its core values. That’s exactly where we are.”
Former Governor Lucky Igbinedion called for unity and resolve, telling members, “There are only two political parties in Nigeria — the PDP and the rest. Let’s go out and show our strength.”