Tensions are mounting within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as senior party figures intensify calls for the replacement of acting National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Damagum. The aggrieved leaders accuse him of fostering division and failing to provide decisive leadership ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections.
Damagum, who has held the position since March 2023, is under fire for overstaying in an acting capacity and allegedly neglecting to address issues of factionalism and anti-party activities. Critics argue that the position should have rotated to the North Central zone by now, in line with the party’s zoning principles.
A senior PDP official, speaking anonymously, stated: “Under Damagum, the party is drifting. The lack of disciplinary action against members working against our interests is leading to defections to the APC and Labour Party. The growing sense of exclusion and indecision is fracturing our unity.”
The internal split between supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike is said to be deepening, paralyzing the party’s leadership and damaging its image as a credible opposition force.
Another party leader lamented the distraction caused by unresolved legal disputes, particularly surrounding the party’s secretaryship, warning that the lack of focus on election strategy could cost the PDP dearly in 2027. “Instead of preparing for the next election, we are stuck dealing with internal squabbles. Damagum’s indecisiveness is compounding the crisis,” he said.
Former PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, also weighed in, reiterating his long-standing call for Damagum to be replaced with a substantive chairman from the North Central zone. “His continued stay in office is fueling more crises within the party, and we are now seeing the results,” Ologbondiyan told Vanguard.
When asked about possible internal moves undermining the party, he simply noted that “several issues are already in the public domain.”
Meanwhile, the party’s current National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, could not be reached for comment. Sources disclosed he is currently out of the country.
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