As defection plagues the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), its deputy national youth leader, Mr Timothy Osadolor has urged disloyal members planning to jump ship to do so quickly so that the loyalists could focus on rebuilding the party.
Recall that the governors of Delta and Akwa Ibom states, Messrs Sheriff Oborevwori and Umo Eno have defected from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
While Oborevwori, his predecessor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, political appointees and the legislature left en masse to the APC, while Eno, on the other hand and some of his cabinet members, switched camp on Friday, June 6.
Reacting to the developments, Osadolor said no party, irrespective of size can survive a haemorrhage of its key members.
“No political party, whether big or small, will be happy to lose assets, especially priced assets like a sitting governor from a critical state such as Akwa Ibom. So yes, the PDP received the news with mixed feelings.”
“But at this stage in our national life, what Nigeria needs are sincere patriots committed to nation-building, not political merchants chasing personal gains.
“It is sad that the men we once looked up to as beacons of integrity have turned out to be nothing but overhyped figures, big men in oversized shoes and garments who cannot meet the basic standards of integrity,” he said.
Osadolor lashed out at Eno for prioritising political survival over public welfare.
“The truth is, given his background, many had hoped his worldview on governance would be shaped by compassion, service, and truth. But it appears the welfare of Nigerians is not his concern. His focus, clearly, is securing a second term,” he said.
The PDP deputy national youth leader, however, expressed optimism that the defections would make it easier for Nigerians to reject the APC in 2027.
“In an interview earlier this year, I said those looking for transport fare to leave should hurry up. And if they need help, they can come to Wadata Plaza, we’ll be glad to escort them out. Let them go quickly so the party can heal and rebuild.
“It’s better they leave now than linger as saboteurs. Those of us who truly believe in this party are ready to reposition it. All hope is not lost,” Osadolor said.
