Acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, Could Step Down Next Week

Insiders revealed to Daily Trust that concerns over factionalism within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) led to a unified decision by the governors to safeguard the integrity of the PDP. The meeting took place shortly before the flag-off of the PDP governorship campaign rally in Ondo, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Damagum is expected to remain in his role until the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for October 24, where discussions on the North-Central’s nomination for a new chairman will take place.

Both Damagum and PDP Deputy National Chairman (South) Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja attended the Akure meeting, alongside prominent party leaders such as Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who also chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, as well as Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo) and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).

Tensions within the party were also a focus of a virtual meeting held earlier in the week, where Osun State Governor Adeleke expressed frustration over the internal crisis and its impact on his potential re-election bid in 2026. He raised concerns about the factionalism weakening the party’s unity.

During the virtual session, Adeleke questioned Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State for his lack of support for the North-Central’s push to retain the chairmanship. Mutfwang, initially opposed to Damagum’s removal, later signaled a change in position, backing a North-Central candidate in line with the party’s constitution.

Though Damagum’s departure seemed imminent, key governors, including Makinde, Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), and Agbu Kefas (Taraba), had previously resisted the move. However, Makinde, seen as a leading figure among them, suggested that if Damagum steps down, he should be given a “soft landing.”

The upcoming NEC meeting will not only finalize the chairmanship nomination but also set the stage for discussing potential dates for a national convention.