The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is grappling with a deepening internal crisis as factionalism within the party continues to escalate.
At the center of the turmoil is the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, whose leadership has been heavily criticized by party leaders.
The crisis has reached a boiling point in Rivers State, where Governor Sim Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, have been locked in a bitter feud. Damagum’s indecisiveness has exacerbated tensions between the two leaders, further destabilizing the party.
In a recent power struggle, Damagum’s faction suspended the National Publicity Secretary and National Legal Adviser for alleged insubordination. However, this move was swiftly countered by the opposing faction, which appointed the National Treasurer as the acting National Chairman.
Amidst the growing chaos, the Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Bala Mohammed, has called for calm and urged Damagum to step down. Mohammed emphasized the need for a united National Working Committee (NWC) to address the party’s pressing challenges.
Various stakeholders within the PDP are exploring potential solutions to the crisis, including the establishment of a caretaker committee to oversee the party’s affairs. However, ongoing legal battles involving Damagum and the NWC have complicated these efforts.
The upcoming PDP 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on October 24th is seen as a pivotal moment for the party. Party members are urging for unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to resolve the crisis and chart a path forward.
Eddy Olafeso, former National Vice Chairman for the South-West, stressed the importance of the NEC in fostering unity and rebuilding the PDP. Timothy Osadolor, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, expressed hope that the NEC will address the party’s leadership and discipline issues.
