By Helen Okechukwu and Fatimah Idera
Ever since the emergence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the forthcoming 2027 general election, the political space has witnessed a series of mass defections from key political actors, particularly from members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP).
The defection of prominent figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Dele Momodu of the PDP, and Senator Ireti Kingibe leaving the LP to join the ADC, raises concerns about the strength of the PDP.
In response to this, the PDP has scheduled its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting for July 24 to address the party’s interest.
According to findings by The New Daily Prime, the forthcoming NEC meeting will mark the 101st of such gatherings, but there is speculation of a low turnout as many members are reportedly engaged in cross-carpeting from one political party to another.
Speaking with this newspaper, political expert, Anjorin Robert, who resides in Ondo State while analysing the capacity and strength of the PDP, described the notion of the party being Nigeria’s leading opposition as a “hypothetical statement,” noting that although it once held that position, it no longer fits that description.
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The socio-political commentator went further to explain that if the PDP still held that position, there probably would not be a need for a third force like the newly formed ADC coalition.
Regarding the upcoming NEC convention, Robert stated that his expectations are low and that he would not be surprised by the outcome of the meeting.
He highlighted that internal disintegration has thrown what was once a formidable party into a state of instability, making any meaningful result unlikely — though, if properly addressed, the PDP could still reclaim its status as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.
Considering the current developments within the party, the political expert expressed optimism for the future, suggesting that if the PDP addresses its internal issues, it could still salvage something valuable.
“Let’s be realistic with ourselves. Right now, they are not — they are no longer — a formidable opposition. But I hope they can speak to themselves, rally themselves together, and do the right thing. I hope they can come to reasonable conclusions, because as it stands, the party is not stable.
“The party is not… It’s not a formidable opposition. But if they can hold their hearts together and really focus on Nigeria — rather than helping themselves — because right now, as it stands, they are helping themselves. They’re just fighting for their own interests,” he said.
“Otherwise, why would we see PDP governors defecting to the APC? Several more are expected to cross over in the coming months.”
“Looking ahead to 2037, anything is still possible; however, I hold little hope for the PDP in its current state. My expectations remain low. Frankly, I would not be surprised if the few remaining structures holding the party together eventually disintegrate.”
“Whether that will still hold effectively or not, is another thing to think about.”
In an interview with a political analyst and a resident of Ilorin, Kwara State, Abdulateef Ahmed, explains that PDP’s upcoming National Convention in a few days is coming at a critical juncture for the party.
He noted that after the party lost key members to the emerging ADC coalition, “Nigerians are keenly watching to see whether the PDP can reinvent itself as a credible opposition force or continue to weaken in the shadow of the ruling APC.”
“I am not certain what the general public expects, but I would personally expect a clear policy direction. Citizens are eager for a vibrant, issue-focused agenda that tackles economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and governance deficits. The PDP must demonstrate that it has fresh, innovative ideas—not merely recycled, uninspiring rhetoric.”
However, many watchers will expect the convention to signal a break from infighting, zoning controversies, and factionalism that have plagued the party. A united front is necessary if it aims to regain public trust.
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Mr Ahmed added that with the ADC Coalition gaining momentum, Nigerians will be looking to see whether the PDP can build a strategic alliance or adapt its political strategy to avoid being overshadowed.
“If the PDP fails to use this convention to showcase credible leadership and a renewed vision, it risks further erosion of relevance ahead of 2027.”
