Bode George Calls for the Removal of Damagum: Cites Violations of PDP Constitution
By Wisdom Tide
October 14, 2024
In a growing internal power struggle within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, has called for the removal of the acting National Chairman, Ambassador Illiya Umar Damagum. George insists that Damagum's continued tenure violates the PDP's constitution, which limits the duration of an acting chairman's role to 90 days.
Violation of PDP Constitution: Damagum's Tenure Exceeds the Limit
Speaking to the Nigerian Tribune, George explained that according to the PDP Constitution, the role of acting national chairman is intended to be temporary, limited to a 90-day period, after which a substantive chairman should be appointed. Damagum was appointed as acting national chairman on March 28, 2023, following a court order that restrained Senator Iyorchia Ayu from continuing in the position. Damagum had been the party’s deputy national chairman (North) prior to this appointment.
George emphasized that Damagum’s prolonged stay in office is unconstitutional, reflecting deeper internal conflicts within the party. "By now, Damagum should have reverted to his position as deputy national chairman (North), and the North Central should have presented a candidate for approval as the substantive chairman," George stated.
Power Struggle within the PDP
The ongoing internal power struggle within the PDP has escalated into a battle between different factions within the National Working Committee (NWC). Damagum’s camp, which includes National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, has clashed with another faction led by National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba and National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN).
Damagum’s leadership recently suspended Ologunagba and Ajibade, citing allegations that require investigation by a committee. In retaliation, Ologunagba’s faction suspended Damagum and Anyanwu, accusing them of anti-party activities. This internal conflict is seen as a continuation of a broader power struggle linked to the 2023 presidential election and positioning for future contests, particularly the 2027 elections.
Impunity and Constitutional Overreach
George criticized party leaders for what he described as "impunity" in ignoring the party’s constitution to serve personal interests. He attributed the ongoing leadership crisis to the failure of influential party members to follow due process. He highlighted that some individuals are holding onto power for personal gain, undermining the party’s capacity to function as an effective opposition.
"Some individuals who think they are larger than life are not willing to let go because of personal interests," George said, adding that such behavior weakens the PDP's standing as the main opposition in Nigeria's political landscape.
He drew parallels to the party’s early years, noting that in 1999, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, a founding member, did not sabotage the party after losing the presidential ticket to Olusegun Obasanjo. According to George, the founding fathers of the PDP ensured fair distribution of party offices across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, a practice that must be upheld for party unity.
Call for Party Unity
George urged the PDP to resolve its internal crisis by adhering to its constitution and putting the party's interest first. He warned that further internal strife could weaken the party’s chances in future elections, specifically the 2027 presidential contest. He criticized the court’s involvement in the Damagum matter, arguing that the PDP has established processes for leadership succession and should resolve the issue internally.
"The PDP must put its house in order if it is to provide the leadership that the country desperately needs," George said, pointing to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)’s failures in governance as an opportunity for the PDP to offer an alternative.
Calls for Caution from PDP Stakeholders
Meanwhile, the Adamawa State chapter of the PDP has also weighed in on the crisis. State Chairman Aliyu Shehu called for caution, emphasizing that the outcome of the conflict could determine the party’s future success. Shehu stressed that the party’s interests should be prioritized over individual ambitions to ensure a united front going into the 2027 elections.
“We cannot afford to fail. If the party considers it in the best interest to retain Damagum, so be it. If they decide otherwise, we must respect that decision,” Shehu stated.
Conclusion
The ongoing power struggle in the PDP reflects deep divisions within the party as it positions itself for the 2027 elections. Chief Olabode George’s call for Damagum’s removal highlights concerns over constitutional violations and internal power struggles. With the Adamawa State chapter urging caution, the outcome of this crisis will likely shape the future direction of the PDP as it seeks to strengthen its position as Nigeria's leading opposition party
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