Those Leaving Were Never With Us’ – Saraki Declares PDP’s Rebirth Amid Exodus

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has asserted that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains unfazed by the recent string of defections in Delta State to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a post on his (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, April 24, 2025, titled “There is No Cause for Alarm, We’ll Reposition PDP”, Saraki maintained that those who wish to leave the party should do so, allowing dedicated members to focus on rebuilding and strengthening the opposition.

Saraki disclosed that he has received a flood of calls from concerned party stakeholders and pro-democracy youths regarding the wave of defections within Delta PDP. He emphasized that the party is undergoing a renewal, and urged loyal members to stay the course.

“It is better to have a handful of honest, dedicated members than to retain many who are insincere or opportunistic,” Saraki stated.

The former Kwara State governor insisted that the defections should not demoralize PDP members but instead galvanize them to consolidate and chart a stronger path forward.

He advised party members not to blame the ruling APC for PDP’s internal challenges, urging them instead to take responsibility and work toward revitalizing the party.

On the defection of Ifeanyi Okowa’s former running mate, Saraki described it as a reflection of the deterioration within the political space.

He underscored the importance of a vibrant opposition to ensure Nigeria’s democracy remains intact, warning that the country cannot thrive as a one-party state—a situation he says some political actors are subtly pushing toward.

Saraki’s statement concluded:

“To those asking about the impact of the defections in Delta PDP, my position is simple—anyone who wants to leave should do so now. Those of us remaining will focus on repositioning the PDP to serve as a strong, credible opposition and a better alternative for Nigerians.”