The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State received a major political boost on Saturday as the Secretary of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the state, Barrister Solomon Chinedu Adum, the party's Deputy Chairman, Mr. Okechukwu Idenyi, and over 4,000 members defected to the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The defectors were formally received at a political rally held in Isu Community, Onicha Local Government Area, the country home of the PDP governorship candidate, Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, popularly known as AnyiChuks.
Welcoming the new members into the party, the Ebonyi State PDP Chairman, Hon. Chukwuma Igwe, described the development as a major milestone for the party, assuring the defectors of equal opportunities and inclusion.
"This is a major boost for the Peoples Democratic Party in Ebonyi State. We assure all 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 State in 2027," Igwe said.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Barrister Adum said the decision to leave the NDC followed extensive consultations with members and supporters across the state.
According to him, "Our decision was driven by our confidence in the PDP's vision for democratic governance, unity and sustainable development in the state. We pledge to work with the leadership of the PDP to expand the party's grassroots support ahead of future political activities. We are committed to promoting peace, internal democracy and issue-based politics."
Adum described the PDP as his foundation political party, noting that it had produced many prominent leaders, including presidents, governors, ministers, lawmakers and commissioners, among others.
He also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, for what he described as his commitment to sustaining the PDP despite its challenges.
"I want to appreciate the leader of our party, Chief Nyesom Wike, whose commitment has kept the PDP alive. We believe the party will return stronger," he said.
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The former NDC secretary equally threw his weight behind the PDP governorship candidate, Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, expressing confidence in his ability to transform Ebonyi State.
He said: "Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii has decided to liberate Ebonyi from bad governance that has projected the state negatively and slowed development.
"Considering Odii's personality, wealth of experience, capacity and character, he remains the right choice for the people of Ebonyi in 2027.
Also addressing the gathering, the PDP candidate for Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency, Mr. Felix Igboke, described the PDP as "a moving train" and urged the new members to remain steadfast and committed to the party's victory.
"PDP is the party that has built sustainability. The 2027 election is the time for all of us to work together to ensure victory. Those who work for the party shall reap the fruit of their labour. I welcome all the defectors because ours is a moving train," Igboke said.
Speaking earlier, PDP chieftain, Mr. Okorie C. Okorie, said the purpose of the gathering was to formally receive the large number of defectors into the party, describing their decision as a clear indication of growing confidence in the PDP.
Other party leaders present at the event included the PDP South East Publicity Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Ugbala, the Ebonyi State PDP Women Leader, Mrs. Chinyere Nwele, and other stakeholders.
The defectors maintained that their decision to join the PDP was informed by their desire to strengthen the opposition and promote inclusive governance in Ebonyi State and Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
