More PDP Members Set to Dump Party in Ukwuani as Discontent Grows Over Neglect and Marginalization
OBIARUKU/Nigeria: Fresh indications suggest that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State may be on the verge of another wave of mass defections, as mounting frustrations over neglect, exclusion, and alleged political selfishness continue to alienate long-time party loyalists. Multiple sources have confirmed to Ndokwa Reporters that the discontent is spreading rapidly across several communities, with some party members already quietly aligning with the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to sources close to the development, the growing dissatisfaction is tied to the perceived abandonment of grassroots supporters who worked tirelessly to secure victory for the PDP in the 2023 general elections. Communities such as Umuebu, Ezhionum, Obeti, Umutu, and Umuaja are said to be witnessing “quiet but deliberate” movements out of the ruling party, fueled by what many describe as the self-serving attitude of key political officeholders in the area.
Top among those fingered for the neglect are the Delta State Commissioner for Finance, the representative of Ukwuani on the board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), as well as various political appointees from the area. “The leaders of the PDP in Ukwuani are self-centered,” said a senior party source. “They have sidelined the real party builders and now serve only their personal interests. Their conduct is not only weakening the PDP—it’s also undermining Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.”
However, the source also noted that some of the current leaders are only catering to a select few individuals, many of whom are not genuine party loyalists. He warned that once these leaders lose their appointments, those same individuals—described as fair-weather supporters—are likely to defect from the party. According to him, these beneficiaries were not the ones who truly laboured for the PDP’s success but were handpicked for reasons unrelated to their commitment or sacrifices. He added that when real political activities resume, such opportunists will be nowhere to be found.
The latest round of defections is coming on the heels of the coordinated resignation of 84 PDP members in Ukwuani on Friday, April 11, 2025. The defectors, who are believed to be loyalists of Senator Ned Nwoko under the Ned Nwoko Mandate political structure, submitted a jointly signed resignation letter to the Ukwuani PDP Chairman. The letter accused the party leadership of growing factionalism, systemic marginalization, and rewarding newcomers over long-serving loyalists. “This is an injustice. Enough is enough,” the letter read in part.
Insiders say the number of resignations could balloon in the days ahead. “What you saw last Friday is just the tip of the iceberg,” one source revealed. “Many more have left quietly, while others are simply waiting for the right moment. A fortnight ago, I was told that over 2,000 PDP members are prepared to move once the green light is given.” The sentiment was echoed by other insiders who confirmed that a quiet wave of defections has already swept through the local government headquarters.
The unfolding crisis is expected to embolden the APC, which is aggressively consolidating its influence in Delta North under the leadership of Senator Ned Nwoko. With strategic grassroots mobilization and increasing dissatisfaction among PDP members, political observers warn that the PDP’s dominance in Ukwuani LGA may soon be tested unless urgent steps are taken to reconcile aggrieved members and restore confidence in the party’s leadership.
