Former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has disclosed that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has received a firm directive to identify and expel members who have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This development comes amid growing tensions within opposition ranks following the recent formation of a coalition of political parties seeking to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Wednesday during a strategic meeting with stakeholders in Makurdi, Ortom stressed that the directive was issued to safeguard the unity and structure of the PDP. He emphasized that the party would not tolerate acts of disloyalty or indiscipline from members who have shifted allegiance to other political platforms without due process or official resignation from the PDP.
According to Ortom, “There is no room for divided loyalty. If you’re with PDP, you must stay committed. Those who have joined ADC or are working with them while still claiming PDP membership will be shown the way out. The NWC has been directed to swing into action.”
He further hinted that the move is part of a broader strategy to reposition the PDP ahead of the 2027 elections and to weed out internal saboteurs. Ortom reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP, even as he supports the formation of a unified opposition bloc, noting that any coalition must be built on mutual respect and formal agreements — not on backdoor defections.
This decision comes as the ADC, now a central player in the opposition coalition, continues to attract members from various parties dissatisfied with the leadership and direction of their current platforms. However, PDP insiders believe that this growing interest in ADC must not come at the cost of the party’s integrity and structure.
The PDP’s move to crack down on defectors could reshape internal power dynamics, especially in states like Benue, Rivers, and Oyo, where defections have intensified. Political observers say this could either strengthen PDP’s position or deepen internal rifts if not managed with tact.