The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated an 11-member caretaker committee for its Delta State chapter, drawing a large crowd of party leaders, members, and supporters to Asaba in what many described as a renewed show of strength after months of internal crisis and defections. The gathering doubled as a stakeholders’ meeting aimed at rebuilding the party’s structure ahead of future political contests.
The event comes at a critical time for the PDP in Delta State, following the defection of several prominent figures and political structures — including allies of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori — to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Despite the setback, party leaders insisted that the strong turnout demonstrated that the PDP still has deep grassroots support and remains a viable political force in the state.
Board of Trustees members, elders, chieftains, and loyal supporters used the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to the party’s survival and revival. Speakers maintained that ongoing legal disputes affecting the PDP’s national leadership would soon be resolved and urged members not to lose faith in the party’s future.
Representing the National Working Committee led by Dr. Kabiru Turaki, the South-South Zonal Chairman of the PDP, Elder Emmanuel Ogidi, called on members to stay united and remain committed despite recent political challenges. He accused defectors of turning their backs on the party that had helped build their political careers and encouraged loyal members to remain steadfast as the PDP works to rebuild.
Ogidi also addressed national party matters, including preparations for the proposed Ibadan National Convention. He noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was present during discussions at the party’s National Executive Committee meeting but alleged that the electoral body had not maintained neutrality in the internal disputes facing the PDP. He expressed optimism that ongoing court cases would be resolved soon and reaffirmed the party’s determination to defend its votes in the 2027 general elections, especially following the Senate’s rejection of mandatory electronic transmission of election results.
He praised members who remained loyal despite political pressure, describing the PDP as a party that has maintained its identity, ideology, and focus on people-centred governance since its formation.
Other prominent party figures who addressed the gathering included Board of Trustees members Dame Esther Uduehi and Chief Ejiofor Onyia. They described the large turnout as proof that the PDP remains alive in Delta State, countering claims that the party had collapsed following the wave of defections.
Uduehi emphasized that while political leaders may change parties, the ordinary people remain the true strength of the PDP in the South-South region. She expressed confidence that the party would regain power through free and fair elections in 2027 and insisted that the PDP still has the capacity to restore Nigeria’s political stability and global reputation.
Chief Ejiofor Onyia commended Elder Emmanuel Ogidi for sustaining the PDP’s presence in Delta State despite the challenges caused by mass defections. He criticised politicians who frequently switch parties, arguing that ideological commitment and loyalty should remain central to political participation.
Additional speakers, including PDP chieftain Chief Clement Ufuani and the Anambra State PDP Chairman — who also heads the Forum of State Chairmen — pledged continued support for party restructuring efforts and called on members across the country to work toward a strong showing in the 2027 elections.
A major highlight of the event was the formal inauguration of the 11-member Delta State PDP Caretaker Committee, led by Professor Sylvester Monye as chairman. The committee was sworn in by the party’s national leadership with a three-month mandate to reorganise the party, strengthen internal structures, and prepare for the upcoming elective congress.
In his acceptance speech, Professor Monye assured members that the committee would adopt an inclusive approach to rebuilding the party through consultation, reconciliation, and active engagement with stakeholders across the state. He urged members to cooperate with the new leadership and expressed confidence that the PDP would emerge stronger and more united ahead of the 2027 general elections.
