PDP leaders disown ADC defection claims, reaffirm party unity and deny alliance talks in Ondo, urging members to remain loyal ahead of the 2027 elections

PDP leaders disown ADC defection claims and have declared the party’s unwavering unity and strength in Ondo State, despite the recent political movements of some former members.

Also read: Abubakar Malami Joins ADC in Shocking Move to Fight National Crisis

In a strong rebuttal to rumours of a party merger or defection wave, top leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clarified their stance in a joint statement issued on Wednesday.

Among the signatories were Dr Bode Olajumoke, a life member of the Board of Trustees; Dr Eddy Olafeso; National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba; Chief Clement Faboyede; Olajide Oguntodu; and Rt. Hon. Bakita Bello, who also serves as the interim chairman of the Ondo PDP.

The leaders rejected any affiliation with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or its newly announced coalition, dismissing it as a political distraction with no foundation in the PDP’s strategic direction.

“Contrary to insinuations, the PDP remains strong at all levels — from the wards to the senatorial zones,” the statement read.

One of the most notable figures allegedly reported to have defected, Chief Agboola Ajayi, a former deputy governor and PDP gubernatorial candidate, has publicly denied joining the ADC, further casting doubt on the credibility of such reports.

The PDP leaders disown ADC defection stories, asserting that the party’s structures in all 203 wards and 18 local government areas remain active and intact.

“At this critical juncture in our political journey, it is important to address the wave of coalition talks making the rounds both nationally and within Ondo State,” the leaders noted.

“We understand that recent media reports and the movements of some political figures have created uncertainty and raised questions. We, as PDP leaders in Ondo, offer clarity and reassurance: neither the national leadership nor the Ondo leadership has initiated any merger or alliance with any other party.”

The strength of the PDP lies not in media hype or fleeting alliances but in the loyalty of our members.

They reaffirmed that the PDP’s vision remains focused on rebuilding Nigeria and delivering effective governance.

“The strength of the PDP lies not in media hype or fleeting alliances but in the loyalty of our members, our consistent vision, and our grassroots presence,” they said.

Aimed at discouraging further confusion, the leaders maintained that the party would communicate its political strategy through constitutionally recognised channels and organs.

“To our youth, women, elders, and stakeholders, we say: the PDP remains the most viable platform to deliver the Nigeria and Ondo State of our dreams. Let no distraction shake your resolve,” the statement urged.

In a nod to the party’s resilience, they added that fleeting political alliances, without ideological direction or grassroots connection, could not replicate the PDP’s longstanding influence.

“These coalitions lack a clear, people-centred ideology and cannot replace the PDP’s legacy and tested structures,” they said.

The PDP leaders disown ADC narratives and instead issued a call to action, asking members to prepare, mobilise, and stay committed as the 2027 general elections approach.

Also read: PDP Leaders Coalition Talks Signal Shocking Rift Ahead of 2027 Elections

“This is not the time to waver. This is the time to organise, mobilise, and energise for the task ahead,” they stressed.