PDP National Vice Chairman Describes Defection To ADC As Unfortunate

The National Vice Chairman (South-West) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kamorudeen Ajisafe, has expressed disappointment over the recent wave of defections from the party to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the move as “unfortunate” and ill-advised.

Naijaonpoint reports that Ajisafe, in an interview with The Guardian shortly after prominent PDP leaders endorsed ADC as the new coalition platform ahead of the 2027 general elections, maintained that the PDP remains a strong and recognised political brand, warning against hasty political realignments.

Addressing concerns over the party’s decision to retain Senator Samuel Anyanwu as its National Secretary, Ajisafe explained that the choice was largely informed by the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) posture during a recent meeting with PDP executives.

“INEC met with us and asked for a new national secretary, but from their posture, it was clear the commission might not recognise anyone other than Anyanwu, since his name still appears on their website,” he said.

He disclosed that while the PDP leadership considered seeking further legal interpretation of the Supreme Court’s ruling on the matter, the time factor forced their hand.

“We thought about going back to court for clarification, but how fast will the case be handled? Time is no longer on our side. We had no option but to retain Anyanwu,” Ajisafe said.

Ajisafe admitted that Anyanwu’s continued hold on the position has sparked resentment among several party members, especially due to his perceived closeness to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

He noted, “Many believe Wike is using Anyanwu to destabilise the PDP. But honestly, leaving for ADC or any other party is not the best course of action.”

He, however, maintained that despite the internal challenges, the PDP’s electoral strength remains solid.

On the possible ripple effect of the defections on the 2026 Osun governorship election and the 2027 political contest in Oyo State, the party chieftain was emphatic.

“Let me be frank with you, whatever is happening at the national level of the PDP has no bearing on Governor Seyi Makinde’s ability to determine his successor in Oyo or on Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election next year. Those outcomes are assured,” Ajisafe stated.

He called on aggrieved party members to exercise patience and contribute to rebuilding the party from within, adding that the PDP still has the structures and national appeal to mount a formidable comeback in future elections.