PDP Governors Explain Why Damagum Decision is Difficult

The Chairperson of the PDP Governors Forum, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, has stated that only the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will make the decision on whether to remove or retain Umar Damagum as the acting national chairperson of the party.

Mr Mohammed emphasized that the process of appointing a new leader will be influenced by ongoing litigations and the party’s intention to avoid creating factions.

He made these remarks on Wednesday while speaking to the press after a closed-door meeting of the governors at the Akwa Ibom State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja.

“NEC will be responsible for making decisions in such matters, not the governors. While governors are often involved in leadership decisions, we currently have an acting leader and NEC will determine if it is appropriate to fill the vacancy considering the legal repercussions, especially with pending court cases,” Mr Mohammed explained.

“We will not allow any faction to emerge within the party during my tenure as the head of the forum. As governors, we are committed to ensuring unity and resolving all issues to enhance the party’s efficiency and success in future elections,” he added.

Resolving Issues

The chairperson of the PDP Governors Forum confirmed that all lingering issues regarding the party’s leadership have been resolved.

He assured that the upcoming meeting of the party’s NEC on Thursday will adhere to the party’s constitutional provisions.

“I can confidently say that the issues have been resolved and we aim to operate within the constitutional framework of the party.

“We are focused on addressing all outstanding matters and moving forward to ensure compliance with the constitution in terms of congresses and related activities. Public discussions are welcome, but ultimately, NEC will make the final decisions on various matters,” Mr Mohammed stated.

“There are no conflicting groups within NEC, as NEC consists of the PDP Governors Forum and other key stakeholders. We represent only a portion of NEC and cannot speak on its behalf until we convene,” he clarified.

There are reportedly differences among the governors regarding the future of the acting national chairperson.

Mr Damagun assumed the role of acting chairperson of the PDP after the suspension of the former chair, Iyorchia Ayu in 2023.

On Wednesday, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party expressed confidence in the acting chairperson.

He is said to be aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who wants him to stay in office. However, supporters of PDP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar, are reportedly pushing for his removal.