Senator Chris Ekpenyong, a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has expressed deep concern over the recent defections of key political figures to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that President Bola Tinubu has effectively “captured” the PDP, making its recovery increasingly difficult.
In an interview with Vanguard, Ekpenyong highlighted the significance of the recent defections, including that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy Sir Monday Onyeme, and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, all of whom have joined the APC. He noted that these high-profile exits have dealt a severe blow to the PDP’s strength, particularly in the South-South region.
Ekpenyong lamented the party’s decline, attributing it to several factors, including the concentration of power in the hands of state governors, which he believes has undermined the party’s democratic structures. He emphasized that the PDP’s founding fathers, who envisioned a broad-based and inclusive party, would be disheartened by its current state.
Reflecting on the PDP’s history, Ekpenyong pointed out that the party’s downfall began when it was handed over to state governors, a move he believes weakened its foundational principles. He criticized the centralization of power at the state level, which he argues has led to a lack of accountability and internal democracy within the party.
Ekpenyong also expressed disappointment with the party’s leadership, particularly former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who he believes has been more focused on personal ambitions than on rebuilding the party. He suggested that Atiku’s persistent presidential aspirations have contributed to divisions within the party, particularly between the North and the South.
Looking ahead, Ekpenyong warned that the ongoing defections could lead Nigeria towards a one-party state, with the APC consolidating power across the country. He expressed concern that the PDP’s inability to retain its members and rebuild its structures could result in a political landscape dominated by a single party.
Despite these challenges, Ekpenyong remained hopeful that a grassroots movement could emerge to challenge the dominance of the APC. He called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and engaged in the political process to ensure a healthy and competitive democracy.
