The Struggle for PDP National Chairmanship Intensifies
Engr. Utaan Challenges Continued Stay of Damagum
By Wisdom Tide
October 9, 2024
The battle for the leadership of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) has entered a new phase, as Engineer Conrad Terhide Utaan from the North Central Zone has declared his intention to assume the National Chairmanship. This comes in the wake of Senator Iyorchia Ayu's removal from office and the extended tenure of Ambassador Umar Damagum as Acting National Chairman.
Damagum has held the position for over a year, sparking concerns within the party. Section 47(6) of the PDP Constitution mandates that any vacancy in the party's offices should be filled by someone from the originating zone to complete the term. Utaan's bid is based on this provision, as he seeks to restore the chairmanship to the North Central.
Utaan's Criticism of Damagum's Extended Tenure
Speaking to reporters, Utaan expressed discontent with the prolonged tenure of Damagum, asserting that it contradicts the party’s constitution. "What came to us in the North Central was the national chairmanship of the PDP, but now it seems Damagum is becoming a substantive chairman," Utaan said. He emphasized that the North Central should not be sidelined, recalling a previous instance when the chairmanship shifted to another zone and had to be fought for.
Utaan argued that the chairmanship rightfully belongs to the North Central, and any decision to formalize Damagum's position should be communicated transparently. He called for fairness, stating that it was unjust for the North East to hold both the national and deputy national chairmanships, while the North Central remains without representation.
Implications for PDP's Future
Utaan warned of the potential consequences of the current situation, particularly for the PDP's chances in future elections. He pointed out that if the party continues to sideline the North Central, it risks losing more ground to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). "If the PDP continues this way, the APC may easily secure another term," he cautioned. Utaan also clarified that his campaign is focused on completing the North Central’s term, which ends in November 2025, not seeking a long-term appointment.
"It belongs to the North Central. It belongs to Benue. It belongs to zone B of Benue, even if for two days," Utaan added, underscoring the principle of justice and fair representation. He emphasized that political interests have delayed progress but expressed optimism that a new generation of party members is ready to push for change.
A Call for Restoration and Fairness
Utaan called on the party to follow due process, emphasizing that the transition does not require a national convention. He urged Benue leaders to present a consensus candidate to the North Central Zonal Executive Committee, which would then submit the name to the National Executive Committee (NEC). "Now that Iyorchia Ayu is no longer chairman, this position was zoned to us. This is our consensus candidate for Benue," he explained.
He also stressed that this issue should be addressed at the party's upcoming meeting on October 24, 2024.
Utaan's Readiness to Lead
Positioning himself as a candidate for the national chairmanship, Utaan expressed confidence in his ability to lead the party. "I'm ready to engage anyone who wants to replace Ayu in an open debate, and trust me, I'll floor them," he declared. He emphasized that his leadership qualifications extend beyond academic or intellectual competence, claiming a deep connection with the party's grassroots members.
Utaan also highlighted his recent meetings with party leaders at various levels, noting that his message has resonated with them. "I have brought a new fire that will awaken the North Central and, by extension, the PDP," he stated.
A Vision for the PDP’s Future
Concluding his remarks, Utaan outlined his vision for leading the PDP with humility and sacrifice. He acknowledged that his campaign may seem unassuming compared to more established figures but emphasized his desire to bring fresh leadership to the party. "It is my desire to lead this party with humility and sacrifice," he said, confident in his ability to reconnect the PDP with its base and reinvigorate its prospects for the future.
As the PDP prepares for its next chapter, Utaan’s candidacy signals a potential shift in party dynamics, especially within the North Central Zone
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