In the run-up to Nigeria’s 2027 elections, a series of high-profile defections have occurred within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), as several PDP governors have abandoned the opposition party to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection of these governors has raised questions about the PDP’s stability and its prospects for the upcoming elections.
The most recent defector, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, added his name to the growing list of governors who have turned their backs on the PDP. Fubara’s move to the APC has sparked political discussions, particularly in the South-South region, where Rivers State holds significant political and economic weight.
List of PDP Governors Who Have Left the Party
- Governor Siminalayi Fubara – Rivers State
Governor Fubara, who has been at the center of political controversies in Rivers State, officially left the PDP and joined the APC. Fubara stated that he received permission to defect, citing the need to protect the interests of the state. He also revealed that his decision was based on consultations with President Bola Tinubu. - Governor Peter Mbah – Enugu State
Peter Mbah left the PDP on October 14, 2025, and joined the APC, citing the need for better connection to the federal government. Mbah’s defection was accompanied by several other prominent political figures from Enugu, including federal lawmakers, state legislators, and council chairmen. - Governor Douye Diri – Bayelsa State
Governor Douye Diri made a significant move by resigning from the PDP in November 2025, bringing an end to prolonged speculation. He announced that he was leaving the party for obvious reasons, and his exit was accompanied by the departure of 23 members of the state House of Assembly. - Governor Sheriff Oborevwori – Delta State
Sheriff Oborevwori joined the APC in April 2025, after stating that the move would help strengthen unity and development in the state. His defection followed months of political turmoil and dissatisfaction within the PDP. - Governor Umo Eno – Akwa Ibom State
Governor Umo Eno announced his departure from the PDP on June 6, 2025, and joined the APC. Eno expressed his frustration with the PDP’s diminishing prospects and stated that, despite his hard work, the party was not performing as expected on the national stage. - Governor Ademola Adeleke – Osun State
Ademola Adeleke resigned from the PDP on December 2, 2025, after a series of leadership crises within the party. He officially joined the Accord Party soon after. Adeleke’s departure comes as the Osun governor prepares for the 2026 governorship elections.
Political Shifts and Internal Crises within the PDP
The defections have not only affected the PDP’s political presence but have also raised concerns about the party’s ability to unite its members ahead of the 2027 elections. With the APC gaining significant ground through these defections, the PDP finds itself weakened by the departure of several influential governors and party leaders.
For Fubara, Mbah, and the others, their defections reflect broader political dynamics at play, including the influence of the federal government and the growing dissatisfaction with the current leadership within the PDP.
The absence of key figures like Fubara and Adeleke could prove to be a major blow to the PDP’s efforts to maintain a stronghold in their respective states. This shift in political allegiances is likely to play a key role in shaping the 2027 elections, as Nigeria’s two main political parties continue to battle for dominance.
Pressure Mounting on Plateau and Taraba Governors
In addition to the aforementioned governors, Plateau and Taraba states are also facing pressure. Reports indicate that Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau has been urged by hundreds of PDP members to defect to the APC, though he has yet to make an official announcement. Meanwhile, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has confirmed his decision to join the APC in January 2026.
PDP’s Future and the Road Ahead
The series of defections from PDP governors signals a challenging road ahead for the opposition party. As the 2027 elections draw closer, the PDP will need to find a way to regain the trust of its members and the electorate. With federal backing from the APC, the party now faces a more complicated political landscape.
Despite these challenges, the PDP is unlikely to give up its ambition to challenge the APC. However, how it responds to these defections and internal issues will be crucial in determining its future viability in Nigerian politics.
