The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will take punitive action against members defecting to other political parties in the country.
Its Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, who disclosed this to journalists on Wednesday after the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) meeting, emphasised the PDP’s unity and resilience ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He implored members of the party to remain loyal and avoid actions that could weaken the PDP from within, adding that the party remains strong and intact despite internal challenges.
According to him, the 2027 elections would be decided by Nigerians, not by the All Progressives Congress’ tactics.
He accused the ruling party of moves to lure PDP members through intimidation and inducements.
He stated: “To the APC, I send a clear message: you may continue to harass and attempt to lure our members, but the 2027 election will be determined by the Nigerian people, not by your manoeuvres.”
He faulted the ruling party for its failure to address key national issues such as hunger, insecurity, and the arbitrary expulsion of citizens.
He said:“It is time for you to reflect and correct your ways. The issues of hunger, insecurity, and the arbitrary treatment of Nigerians are overwhelming and unacceptable.
“We are in a democratic setting. We should hear the yearning of people. Like I said earlier, we are not conquered. We are law-abiding citizens. We deserve to be heard. For democracy to thrive people must say their minds. People should be listened to and policies should be people-oriented. It’s not for the few.”
He also cautioned members joining coalition party on account of the crisis in PDP, stressing that the party has already resolved their issues.
“Our leaders have already come together to give us this leadership. This is what you can see in this NWC. And I keep reiterating this is the only party in the country that has lasted this long. We have mastered the act of conflict resolution. We know our problems and we solve it within ourselves.
“To those that are contemplating, they should know that there is no place and there’s nowhere that will be as accommodating as our party. But if they feel… I will wish them good luck. But I know they will run coming back.
“I want to re-emphasize that if you are a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, we are drawing a line for those that go to demarket, the party. We will watch them and take appropriate actions at the right time.”