Tensions in PDP as calls for Damagum’s removal heightens

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is grappling with heightened internal discord, as demands for the removal of its acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, gain momentum.

Party insiders report that divisions among key factions are deepening, putting the party’s cohesion at risk.

During a recent Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting in Abuja, members expressed growing concerns about the party’s leadership. At the center of their frustrations is the National Working Committee’s (NWC) repeated delays in holding a crucial National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, a development many believe is hindering efforts to resolve the party’s challenges.

The delay has triggered accusations that the party’s leadership has been compromised by self-serving interests, with Damagum facing criticism for allegedly failing to unite the PDP.

The recent defection of Eriethake Ibori-Suenu, a PDP lawmaker from Delta State and daughter of former Governor James Ibori, to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has further amplified concerns.

Many within the PDP see her departure as a reflection of diminishing confidence in the party’s leadership.

In their communique, the BoT called on the NWC to convene the NEC meeting by February 2025 to address pressing issues, including the selection of a new National Chairman from the North Central Zone to replace Senator Iyorchia Ayu.

Damagum’s critics, many of whom are allies of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, accuse him of aligning with the interests of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, further fueling divisions within the party.

Despite the backlash, Damagum’s supporters remain resolute, citing a court injunction that secures his position until December 2025.

However, some sources suggest he may step aside and resume his role as Deputy National Chairman (North) if the pressure to remove him persists.

With internal rivalries escalating and defections mounting, the PDP faces an uphill battle to maintain its relevance as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.