In the midst of a leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the party’s caucus has thrown its support behind Umar Damagum to continue serving as the acting National Chairman until further notice.
This decision emerged from a caucus meeting held on Wednesday night, ahead of the scheduled National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting set for Thursday, April 18, 2024.
The caucus, which included prominent figures such as former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, and the PDP’s 2023 presidential flag bearer, Atiku Abubakar, resolved to reconstitute all reconciliation committees within the party to address internal grievances affecting its unity.
While issues regarding the party’s chairmanship position were left for discussion at the NEC meeting, it was agreed that Damagum would retain his position until the subsequent NEC meeting following the one on April 18th.
Damagum’s perceived alliance with Nyesom Wike, who serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has sparked speculation about his role within the party.
Additionally, the caucus directed the party to revisit the Rivers State Caretaker Committee List and find a political solution to the ongoing crisis in the state.
The meeting took place less than 24 hours before the scheduled NEC meeting, during which matters concerning the party’s leadership and decisions by various party organs are expected to be addressed.
In related news, Senator Iyorcha Ayu has withdrawn his appeal challenging his removal as the party’s national chairman.
Ayu, who was suspended by the executive committee of the PDP in Igyorov ward, Gboko Local Government Area of Kogi State in 2023 over alleged anti-party activities, had previously sought legal recourse. However, a Federal High Court ruling last year affirmed the party’s decision to sack him, prompting Ayu’s withdrawal of his appeal.
The PDP continues to grapple with internal disputes, with members calling for the resignation of the current NEC led by Damagum.
Meetings such as the NEC and the party’s Board of Trustees have been convened to address these challenges.
