The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State has dismissed fears that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party system, despite the growing wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Recent weeks have seen several high-profile exits from the PDP and other opposition parties, with governors, senators, and lawmakers at both federal and state levels crossing over to the APC.
Among the latest defectors are Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, who joined the APC in June. Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and many PDP members in Delta have also switched allegiance.
Reacting to the trend, Mr. Hakeem Olalemi, PDP Vice Chairman (Lagos Central), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the defections would not weaken the party’s resolve or influence.
“PDP will still stand strong after our convention in November,” Olalemi said confidently. “Nigerians are not ready for a one-party state because it will breed dictatorship. The people want a vibrant multi-party democracy, and they are not impressed with the APC’s performance.”
He described the defectors as politicians driven by self-interest rather than ideology.
“People move from one party to another, but what are their reasons? If it’s because of internal crisis, then they lack the courage to stay and fix things for the sake of Nigerians,” he added.
Olalemi likened the situation to abandoning one’s home during a family disagreement. “If there’s crisis in your home, you don’t run away; you stay and resolve it. Let’s see how far they go in 2027,” he said.
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