As internal party tensions continue to simmer within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a prominent chieftain, Chief Emmanuel Mark, has warned that more defections are imminent if the party leadership fails to address critical issues threatening its cohesion. Mark, who made the statement during a media briefing in Abuja, expressed concern over the lack of unity and strategic direction within the party, which he believes could result in a significant loss of political relevance ahead of future elections.
The comments come in the wake of recent high-profile defections from the PDP to other political platforms, particularly the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and emerging third-force movements. According to Mark, these defections are not isolated events but signs of deeper dissatisfaction among party stakeholders.
“The Ship is Leaking, and It Must Be Fixed”
Chief Mark, a veteran politician and member of the PDP’s Board of Trustees, stated bluntly that the party’s current trajectory is unsustainable. He blamed poor leadership decisions, internal conflicts, and a lack of ideological clarity for the ongoing crisis. He noted that unless drastic steps are taken to reform the party structure, resolve grievances, and reconnect with the grassroots, the PDP may witness an exodus of even more influential figures.
“The truth must be told: the ship is leaking, and it must be fixed before it sinks. What we’re witnessing is just the beginning,” Mark said. “More defections will happen, and unless we stop pretending that all is well, the PDP risks losing its position as Nigeria’s main opposition party.”
He urged the party leadership to stop papering over the cracks and instead focus on resolving key issues, including zoning arrangements, internal democracy, and power-sharing agreements that have historically been the glue holding the PDP together.
Recent Defections and Their Implications
In recent months, several notable PDP members, including former governors, senators, and state assembly members, have defected to rival political platforms. These movements have raised questions about the party’s ability to present a united front in the next general elections and have sparked debates about the PDP’s national appeal.
Chief Mark argued that many of the defectors were motivated not just by personal ambitions but by growing frustration over unresolved internal disputes and the perception that certain regions and groups are being marginalized in party affairs.
“We cannot keep losing our most experienced politicians and pretending it doesn’t matter. Every defection weakens our chances and gives our opponents more ground,” he said.
He stressed that the party must take a holistic approach to rebuilding, one that includes reconciling aggrieved members, revitalizing state chapters, and ensuring inclusive participation at all levels.
A Call for Leadership Renewal
Chief Mark emphasized the need for a generational shift within the PDP leadership. He believes the party must embrace younger, visionary leaders who can speak to the aspirations of the electorate, especially the youth who now constitute a major voting bloc.
“The PDP must evolve. We need leaders who understand today’s Nigeria—its frustrations, its hopes, and its potential. Clinging to outdated strategies and recycling the same old faces will only take us further away from the people,” Mark stated.
He also called for the setting up of a strategic committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the party’s performance in the 2023 general elections, identify areas of weakness, and recommend actionable reforms ahead of future contests.
On Unity and National Outlook
While highlighting the importance of internal unity, Mark reiterated the PDP’s foundational principle as a truly national party. He cautioned against regionalism and political exclusion, warning that any attempt to prioritize sectional interests over national unity would be disastrous for the party.
“We must return to our founding values—a party for all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or region. That is what made PDP strong in the past, and that is what can make it strong again,” he said.
Mark urged party members to put aside personal interests and work together to reposition the PDP as a credible alternative to the ruling party, which he accused of failing to meet the expectations of Nigerians on issues like security, economy, and governance.
Hope for the Future
Despite his warnings and criticisms, Chief Mark expressed hope that the PDP can still turn its fortunes around. He noted that the party still has strong structures across the country and remains popular among a significant portion of the electorate, especially in the South-South, South-East, and parts of the North-Central.
“The PDP is not dead. It is only wounded. With courage, humility, and sincerity, we can heal, rebuild, and come back stronger. But we must act now—before it’s too late,” he concluded.
Reactions Within the Party
Chief Mark’s comments have drawn mixed reactions from within the party. While some members praised his honesty and candor, others accused him of stoking division and undermining the party’s image ahead of important electoral cycles. However, many agreed on the need for urgent reforms and genuine reconciliation efforts.
The PDP National Working Committee (NWC) is yet to issue an official response to Mark’s remarks, but insiders suggest that an emergency stakeholders’ meeting may be convened soon to address the rising tension and chart a new course for the party.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes are on the PDP to see whether it can weather the storm of internal discontent and reclaim its position as a dominant force in Nigerian politics.
