Defections Won’t Kill PDP – Says Lawmaker

The Chairman of the South-South caucus of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the House of Representatives, Fred Agbedi, has expressed confidence that the party will recover from its current internal crisis and emerge stronger.

Agbedi said the PDP remained a strong political platform despite the wave of defections and disagreements affecting the party in Bayelsa State and other parts of the country.

He stated this during a forum organised by the Federated Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Bayelsa State Council.

According to him, the PDP remains “a party of the people” and still has the capacity to rebuild, reconnect with Nigerians and offer credible leadership.

Naija News reports that the lawmaker, who is the PDP nominee for the Bayelsa West Senatorial District, said political parties often go through difficult moments, but added that the strength of a party is measured by its ability to survive such challenges.

He noted that the PDP had faced political storms in the past and still remained one of the most recognised political platforms in the country.

Agbedi said the current crisis and defections should not be interpreted as the end of the party, but as a phase that would eventually strengthen its internal structure.

He maintained that the PDP still had loyal members, committed leaders and strong grassroots support across Bayelsa and the South-South region.

Agbedi said the PDP’s connection with ordinary Nigerians remained one of its strongest assets.

He argued that despite recent setbacks, the party still enjoys goodwill among many citizens who see it as a platform with a history of broad national participation.

The federal lawmaker urged members of the party not to lose hope, saying the PDP would overcome its internal challenges if leaders and members remained focused, united and committed to reconciliation.

He said the party must continue to listen to its members, resolve grievances and rebuild confidence ahead of future elections.

Speaking on his political future, Agbedi said his years of experience in politics and service at the National Assembly had prepared him for higher legislative responsibilities.

He said his nomination for the Bayelsa West Senatorial District was an opportunity to offer broader representation and continue serving the people.

The lawmaker added that his long years in the House of Representatives had given him a strong understanding of legislative work, constituency needs and national issues.

Agbedi said he was ready to bring that experience to the Senate if elected.

The PDP caucus chairman said the ongoing defections from the party, especially in Bayelsa State, would not destroy the PDP.

He maintained that the party had enough internal strength to reorganise itself and remain competitive.

According to him, what the PDP needs at this stage is unity, discipline and renewed commitment from its members.

He added that the party’s future would depend on the willingness of its leaders and members to put collective interest above personal ambition.

Agbedi said he remained confident that the PDP would come out of its current challenges stronger and better prepared for the political contests ahead.