The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dissolved its state executive committees in Delta, Enugu, and Rivers States and immediately constituted caretaker committees to manage party affairs in these states for a period not exceeding 90 days.
The decision, announced on December 12, 2025, by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC), was made in response to the recent defections of the governors of these states to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Background and Reason
- Governors of Enugu (Peter Mbah), Delta (Sheriff Oborevwori), and Rivers (Siminalayi Fubara) had defected to the APC in recent months, citing alignment with federal government priorities and local political developments.
- The dissolution invokes Section 29(2)(b) of the PDP Constitution (2025 as amended), which addresses situations where key party figures defect.
- This move aims to restructure the party’s presence in the affected states, reconcile internal factions, rebuild grassroots structures, and prepare for fresh congresses to elect new executives.
Appointed Caretaker Committee Chairmen
- Enugu State: Steve Oruruo
- Delta State: Sylvester Monye
- Rivers State: Nname Ewor
The NWC, through National Organising Secretary Theophilus Shan, charged the committees to operate strictly in line with the PDP Constitution, the Electoral Act 2022, and the Nigerian Constitution.
Implications for Niger Delta
Delta and Rivers are core Niger Delta states, where PDP has historically maintained strong influence. The dissolutions could impact local politics, especially amid ongoing crises in Rivers and efforts to stabilize party machinery ahead of future elections. Analysts view this as part of broader PDP restructuring to stem defections and regain footing in the South-South and South-East zones.
