The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is set to embark on a major leadership overhaul across the South-South zone following the defection of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to reliable sources within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), the restructuring is part of a broader move to reinforce party discipline and eliminate disloyal elements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The party is clearly displeased,” a senior NWC member revealed. “This will not be business as usual. We are finalizing plans to flush out disloyal elements and reestablish discipline in our ranks.”
The source added that the party intends to initiate legal action against Governor Eno’s defection similar to its approach toward previous defections involving Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. The party plans to act after the Sallah holidays.
Governor Umo Eno formally declared his switch to the APC on Friday, June 6, at a ceremony held at the Akwa Ibom Government House in Uyo, attended by top APC figures including Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Sheriff Oborevwori, Bassey Otu, Monday Okpebholo, and Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
“After completing the rounds of my consultation as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the APC,” Governor Eno stated.
Party officials confirmed that the PDP will commence a zone-wide leadership purge, particularly targeting those aligned with defectors who currently occupy strategic positions within the party’s structures in the South-South.
The South-South region once considered a PDP stronghold has witnessed a steady erosion of its grip, with only Bayelsa and Rivers states remaining under PDP control following Eno’s defection.
“These defections hurt the party’s internal structures. Many of these leaders have loyalists in key zonal and state leadership roles. That must now change,” the NWC insider added.
The restructuring effort is expected to roll out in the coming weeks, with a focus on consolidating the party’s presence and preparing for a strong showing in 2027.
