The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has distanced the party from recent statements made by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, regarding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Ologunagba had claimed that INEC lacked the authority to stop the PDP’s planned 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. However, in a statement on Monday, Damagum clarified that the remarks were made without the approval of the party’s leadership and were not reflective of its official stance.
He described the statement as “premature” and issued without proper consultation, especially as a meeting between PDP leadership and INEC has already been scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, to address the concerns raised by the electoral body.
INEC had earlier declined to acknowledge the PDP’s notice for the June 30 NEC meeting, citing the lack of joint signatures from both the National Chairman and National Secretary, as required by law.
The PDP has been grappling with internal crises, particularly over the disputed position of National Secretary. The contention pits Sunday Udeh-Okoye against Senator Samuel Anyanwu, who enjoys the backing of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Although the party named Setonji Koshoedo as Acting National Secretary, a fact-finding committee led by Taraba State Governor Kefas Agbu confirmed INEC’s recognition of Anyanwu as the legitimate officeholder.
During a Sunday press briefing, Ologunagba asserted that INEC had no constitutional role in routine party meetings like those of the NWC or NEC, referencing past Supreme Court rulings to support his claim. He insisted the party would proceed with its meeting as planned.
Damagum, however, firmly rebuffed those comments, he said: “As Acting National Chairman, I must state categorically that Hon. Ologunagba’s remarks were not sanctioned by the National Working Committee and do not represent the official position of the PDP, this is a sensitive issue that requires internal resolution and collective leadership, not unilateral public commentary.”
He further expressed concern that this was not the first time the Publicity Secretary had acted without consultation and cautioned against actions that could deepen internal divisions.
Despite the controversy, Damagum affirmed the party’s commitment to holding its 100th NEC meeting in line with its constitution and democratic values but with consensus and proper coordination.
“The PDP remains focused on protecting its institutional independence while engaging responsibly with all stakeholders. We thank our members and supporters for their continued vigilance and assure them that we are working to resolve this matter transparently and in unity,” he concluded.
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