Barr Oruruo Vows to Restore Hope, Reposition Enugu PDP for Greatness

The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Enugu state, Barr. Steve Oruruo, has called for unity, resilience, and renewed commitment among members of the party as it begins a new phase of rebuilding and repositioning in the state.

Speaking during a media interaction at the PDP State Secretariat in Enugu on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Barr. Oruruo, who until recently served as the Deputy Chairman of the party, assumed leadership following the defection of his predecessor, the former state chairman of the party, Dr. Martin Chukwunweike 

and the Enugu State Governor, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Addressing journalists, Barr. Oruruo dispelled concerns about the future of the PDP in Enugu State, urging party members to remain calm and resolute. He described the current developments as a “wake-up call” and an opportunity for the PDP to rediscover its strength, reconnect with the people, and reaffirm its foundational ideals as a people-driven party.

 “In the face of defections, I urge our members to stay motivated and focused. Few individuals leaving the party does not signify collapse. We have witnessed similar developments in other states where the party emerged even stronger. What we need now is unity, credible conventions, transparent primaries, and quality candidates who can draw genuine support from the masses,” he said.

Barr. Oruruo emphasized that the PDP remains “unmitigated, unwavering, and unalloyed” in its resolve to stand firm as a credible opposition and a viable alternative political platform in Enugu and beyond. He noted that while the Governor’s exit might have short-term financial implications, the will of the people remains the party’s greatest strength.

 “Beyond financial consequences lies the will of the masses. The PDP belongs to the people, and that’s why we call it the Peoples Democratic Party. Our task is to align with their aspirations, ensure fairness, and maintain the party’s relevance and value in Enugu and across the South East,” he declared.

The State Chairman reiterated his commitment to building a PDP that thrives on equity, transparency, and solidarity, assuring members that internal democracy will be restored to its rightful place.

He further observed that the PDP, both at the state and national levels, has faced what he described as “political witch-hunts,” but maintained that such trials are a testament to the party’s continued relevance.

 “If you see a tree that bears fruit, it’s the one that receives the most stones. So, we will not be distracted. The PDP is building a party capable of winning elections and leading with integrity,” he added.

Barr. Oruruo also underscored the importance of South East inclusion in the party’s national calculations, stressing that for the PDP to regain the region’s full trust, it must show fairness and genuine inclusion.

 “The South East must be fully encapsulated in everything PDP does at the national level. We’ll continue our advocacy for true leadership and inclusivity in governance. Defection is not the end of the party, it is a call to reflection and rebuilding,” he maintained.

While acknowledging the right of any politician to defect, Barr. Oruruo said his focus as chairman would be to ensure that, regardless of such movements, the PDP in Enugu State remains solid, organized, and people-oriented.

 “Defection is allowed within the constitution; it’s a matter of choice. But for us, this is a moment to rebuild, to dig deeper, and to draw inspiration from the will of the people. The road to convention may be tortuous, but at the end of the tunnel, there will be light,” he concluded with optimism.