Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has officially defected from the Governor Seyi Makinde-backed Turaki faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), aligning with the Nyesom Wike-led bloc as it inaugurates its National Convention Committee chaired by former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu.
Natasha, who had earlier attended the Ibadan convention backed by Governor Makinde—later nullified—has now pitched her tent with the faction recognised by both the Court of Appeal and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The move signals a significant political shift as she positions herself for a potential re-election bid to the Senate in 2027.
Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde, speaking on behalf of PDP governors, acknowledged that the party is currently navigating a turbulent phase but expressed confidence that the crisis would ultimately be resolved.
“It’s a challenging period for us as leaders and members of the Peoples Democratic Party. It is also a challenging period for democracy in Nigeria,” Makinde said.
He described the situation as unprecedented in Nigeria’s political history, noting that even seasoned political actors have not witnessed such a landscape.
“I have been talking to people who have been involved in the political evolution of this country, and none of them have seen a political landscape like what we are witnessing today,” he stated.
Despite the turmoil, Makinde maintained that PDP leaders must remain resolute, stressing that history would judge their actions.
“We are only two remaining governors, but we are not bothered. I can say personally, and on behalf of my colleague, that when the story of this period is told and when the story of democracy in Nigeria is written, they will find us on the side of the people,” he added.
He further urged party members and stakeholders to remain mindful of their roles in shaping both the party’s future and Nigeria’s democratic trajectory.
“Whatever role we want to play as individuals and collectively as a party, we must be conscious of what history is going to record against us or for us during this period,” Makinde concluded.
The unfolding developments highlight deepening divisions within the PDP, as key actors continue to realign amid legal battles and the struggle for institutional legitimacy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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