PDP Southeast Caucus Sets Bold Conditions for Saraki’s Reconciliation Panel to Halt Defections

Southeast PDP Caucus Demands Key Retention to Halt Regional DefectionsIn a decisive move, the Southeast chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has made it clear that they require the continued leadership of Sunday Ude-Okoye as the party’s National Secretary. This stipulation was outlined as part of the conditions presented to the Bukola Saraki-led reconciliation team, aimed at preventing further exodus of party members from the region.

The breakthrough came during a private meeting on Friday at the Enugu State Government House, where Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah engaged with the Saraki panel. The session focused on strategies to curb the rising defections especially affecting the South-South and Southeast zones.

Notably, the Southeast PDP leaders had previously issued a stern warning on May 14, threatening to leave the party if Ude-Okoye’s position as National Secretary was not preserved.

According to an insider who spoke with Punch, members of the caucus emphasized that the PDP’s influence in the Southeast could weaken significantly if the party’s leadership neglects the concerns raised by stakeholders from the region.

Governor Mbah reportedly voiced disappointment over the perceived marginalization of the Southeast, which has historically been a major stronghold for the party. He asserted that safeguarding the zone’s political dominance requires maintaining Ude-Okoye’s role, instead of replacing him with Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

The governor reminded the panel of the Southeast’s pivotal role during turbulent times, citing how the region, led by then-Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, rallied firmly to restore stability to the PDP amidst the crises of 2015. He urged the national leadership to give the Southeast a more prominent and respected position within the party structure.