Confusion Escalates In PDP Over Damagum’s National Chair Position

Confusion Escalates In PDP Over Damagum’s National Chair Position

More confusion reigned on Thursday within the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over calls for and against the continued stay of its acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Ilyas Damagum.

On Thursday, Adamawa Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri posted a statement via his handle, @GovernorAUF on on X to express support for the embattled acting party chairman.

“Solidly in support of Amb. Umar Damagum as National Chairman of @OfficialPDPNig! His leadership has restored public confidence, and we are confident he will steer the party to greater heights. Let’s respect the court ruling and uphold our democracy,” Fintiri stated.

On Tuesday, Bauchi Governor, Bala Mohammed, who is also Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, hinted the leadership of the party had resolved to replace Damagum with someone from the North Central.

However, on Wednesday, Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde declared he and his Osun counterpart Ademola Adeleke were solidly behind Damagum.

“Let me say clearly, I have been discussing with my brother (Governor Adeleke) on our way here, that we are 100 per cent in support of the Iliya Damagum-led NWC; whatever decision you take, we will support you, to reposition our party,” Makinde had said.

But in an apparent move to untangle himself from Makinde’s declaration, Adeleke issued a statement through his spokesman, Mallam Olawale Rasheed on Thursday, asserting he supports whatever the PDP constitution and the PDP Governors’ Forum decide on the matter.

“Governor Ademola Adeleke has clarified his position on the raging leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), declaring that he stands by the relevant provisions of the PDP Constitution.

“I stand by the Constitution of our great party which clearly spelt out the succession procedure in case of the exit of an elected chairman.

“I also stand by the resolution of the PDP Governors’ Forum of which I am an integral part.

“Our party must adhere to its Constitution at this critical time and at all times. That is the way to build a responsible political party,” he stated.