The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has cautioned former member, Mr Deji Doherty, to desist from meddling in the party’s internal matters, stressing that he has since defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
In a statement, the PDP reminded Doherty that his defection to the APC was publicly confirmed in 2023 by Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, on national television following the general elections, an announcement Doherty has never refuted.
The party urged him to focus his energy on consolidating his position within the ruling APC rather than attempting to create the impression that he still holds any stake in the PDP.
“The PDP in Lagos understands your frustration, but you ceased to be our member since 2023, as pronounced by the Lagos Deputy Governor on live television, a declaration you have yet to deny. We advise you to channel your energy into gaining relevance among your new allies in the APC,” the statement read.
The opposition party noted that it ordinarily would not have dignified Doherty with a response, describing him as a “persona non grata” during his time in the PDP. However, it said the need to set the record straight became necessary following Doherty’s recent comments regarding PDP congresses.
The PDP dismissed Doherty’s claims that some members were forced out of the party, arguing instead that he and his allies were never loyal, but “self-serving individuals” whose conduct was marked by internal crises and mismanagement of campaign resources.
“We watched with disgust a video where Deji Doherty, a former member whose time in PDP was riddled with self-glorification and poor leadership, attempted to pontificate about alleged abuse of power. The question remains: what business does he have with PDP affairs when he and his associates have openly switched loyalty to the APC?” the statement continued.
The PDP insisted that Doherty and others like him could not operate as “moles” in the party while serving the interests of their “new paymasters,” recalling that their defection was publicly exposed by the Deputy Governor and remains undisputed.
Lagos PDP warns Deji Doherty against interference in party affairs