PDP Crisis Deepens as Governors Fubara, Adeleke Exit Party

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing escalating internal turmoil ahead of the 2027 elections, with mounting losses following the 2023 polls. The latest blow came as Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke formally dumped the party—Fubara joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Adeleke moving to the Accord Party.

Fubara declared his defection to the APC during a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt, saying the PDP failed to protect him. He explained that backing President Bola Tinubu required fully aligning with the ruling party, not offering “backdoor support.” His move follows the recent defection of Speaker Martin Amaewhule and 17 Rivers lawmakers, who cited the PDP’s internal crisis.

In Osun, Governor Adeleke revealed via his verified X handle that he had quietly joined the Accord Party on November 6, 2025, as the platform for his 2026 re-election bid. He said the party’s welfare-focused ideology aligns with his administration’s priorities.

These major defections come amid a wave of opposition politicians decamping to the APC, fueling fears that Nigeria could be sliding toward a one-party system. Analysts warn this trend may leave President Tinubu with little effective opposition in 2027.

Responding to Fubara’s move, the PDP said his defection was “self-inflicted.” National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong argued that the governor made political decisions that led to his current situation and should not blame the party. The PDP added that it had consistently defended him throughout the crisis, wishing him well despite what it described as his misguided accusations.

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