By Deborah Nnamdi
Senator Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has expressed confidence that the party will survive its current wave of defections and reclaim its strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Monday at the PDP national headquarters in Abuja during the inauguration of 39 new BoT members, Wabara dismissed concerns about the party’s stability, affirming that the PDP remains resilient despite internal challenges.
“The PDP shall not die—it is here to stay,” Wabara declared.
He explained that 23 of the new members were nominated by their respective states, while 16 were selected to represent the party’s zonal interests. Wabara, a former Senate President, described the large turnout of stakeholders as a clear sign of the party’s enduring vitality.
He noted, “Today’s event shows that all the speculations about mass defections don’t apply to the BoT. When the board is alive, the PDP is alive. I’m overwhelmed with joy, and confident that PDP will rise again.”
Wabara continued, emphasizing the party’s resilience: “The Board of Trustees has always maintained that the PDP will not die. We are seeing this belief manifest. The God of PDP never sleeps.”
Addressing the newly inaugurated members, he urged them to serve with dedication and act as a stabilizing force during uncertain times.
“Your appointment is not just an honor—it is a call to uphold the integrity, unity, and vision of our party. As the party’s conscience, the BoT must offer wise counsel and help maintain stability while ensuring our actions align with the PDP’s core values,” he said.
He further emphasized that board membership comes with great responsibility: “This is a call to serve with integrity, transparency, and unwavering dedication to the party and the nation.”
Earlier, Acting National Chairman Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum, represented by Acting National Secretary Arch. Setonji Koshoedo called for continued collaboration between the BoT and the National Working Committee (NWC). He reaffirmed the NWC’s commitment to working closely with the board to reposition the party.
“The BoT is the conscience of the PDP. The Constitution entrusts it with guiding the party, not only in Nigeria but across Africa. We will support you fully and hope for your active engagement in our collective efforts to rebuild the PDP,” Damagum said.
Speaking to journalists after the ceremony, former PDP National Vice Chairman (South West) and newly inducted BoT member, Hon. Eddy Olafeso, echoed Wabara’s optimism.
Asked whether the ongoing defections were a concern, Olafeso responded, “This phase will pass, and in fact, it’s already passing. Many prominent figures are returning, and that speaks volumes. We are poised for a strong comeback.”
Among the newly inaugurated BoT members are several prominent political figures, including former governors Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Samuel Ortom (Benue), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Sen. Ibrahim Shekarau (Kano), Lucky Igbinedion (Edo), and Arch. Darius Ishaku (Taraba). Others include Hon. Labaran Maku, Senator Zaynab Kure, Chief (Mrs.) Onikepo Oshodi, and Alhaja Mutiatu Ladoja.
