PDP Crisis: Damagum Likely to Step Down Next Week
By Wisdom Tide
October 16, 2024
Indications have emerged that Ambassador Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), may step down from his position following a crucial decision by the party's governors. This decision, reached during a meeting in Akure, Ondo State, on Tuesday, is aimed at resolving the factional issues within the party's National Working Committee (NWC) and maintaining unity within the PDP.
Governors' Meeting in Akure
The decision for Damagum to potentially step down was made after a meeting led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who also serves as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum. The meeting took place ahead of the PDP's official flag-off for the governorship campaign in Ondo. According to sources, this gathering was a continuation of a virtual meeting held the day before, where the party's internal crisis was discussed at length.
Notable attendees at the meeting included Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and other key figures such as Damagum himself and the PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja.
Growing Concerns over Factional Crisis
During the virtual meeting on Monday, Governor Ademola Adeleke voiced his concern over the deepening crisis within the party, fearing that it could negatively affect his re-election campaign in 2026. Reports suggest that Adeleke confronted Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, accusing him of failing to support the North-Central region's bid to retain the party chairmanship. Mutfwang, who initially opposed Damagum’s removal, later shifted his stance, aligning with the party's constitution that supports a North-Central chairman.
Makinde's Call for a "Soft Landing"
Governor Seyi Makinde, considered the leader of a faction supporting Damagum, suggested a compromise to ease tensions. He proposed that if Damagum were to step down, he should be offered a "soft landing" to ensure a smooth transition. Following discussions, the governors agreed that Damagum would continue in his role until the upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for October 24.
Upcoming NEC Meeting and Party Leadership
At the NEC meeting, a new chairman from the North-Central is expected to be nominated, in line with the party’s efforts to adhere to regional balance. Additionally, the NEC will likely set a timeline for a national convention, which will address broader leadership issues within the PDP and pave the way for more long-term resolutions to the factional disputes.
This development reflects the party's ongoing efforts to restore internal cohesion ahead of future electoral battles
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