Wike vs. Atiku: Fresh Moves to Challenge PDP Acting Chairman Damagum
By Wisdom Tide
October 27, 2024
As tensions within Nigeria’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP) escalate, the factions of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have reignited their strategic rivalry. Both camps are preparing for the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting rescheduled for November 28, aiming to influence the party's leadership dynamics.
Wike's Defiant Stance Against Atiku and PDP Opponents
At an event in Port Harcourt, Wike openly declared his intent to continue opposing Atiku, PDP governors, and others he perceives as politically antagonistic. According to sources, Wike and his allies have been actively strategizing in both Abuja and Port Harcourt, with a primary objective of securing recent court victories within the party's internal power struggle.
Wike’s camp views the rescheduled NEC meeting as beneficial, as it extends the tenure of Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, allowing their faction more time to consolidate power.
Challenges Facing the Atiku Camp
In contrast, Atiku’s camp has struggled to gain momentum following the resignation of former PDP National Chairman Dr. Iyorchia Ayu. Efforts to replace Ayu with a representative from Nigeria’s North Central region have been hampered, as legal proceedings have blocked attempts to remove Damagum.
Legal Actions to Challenge Damagum’s Position
A recent court ruling preventing the NEC and the party’s Board of Trustees from ousting Damagum has prompted the Atiku camp to explore legal recourse. Party insiders confirmed that a team of prominent attorneys, led by two Senior Advocates of Nigeria, is being assembled to appeal the order.
A NEC member, speaking anonymously, stated, “We are actively working to appeal the court order. According to the 98th NEC meeting’s resolution, the National Working Committee (NWC) was tasked with organizing congresses and initiating a succession plan after Dr. Ayu’s resignation. However, Damagum has consistently found reasons to delay NEC meetings and remain in his acting role.”
Reaction to the Rescheduled NEC Meeting Date
Some within the PDP see the NEC meeting postponement as favorable to all parties involved. A source commented, “The delay is a win-win; it grants Damagum additional time in his acting role while allowing the opposing camp to challenge the existing court order.”
This postponement also coincides with the Ondo State governorship election, and both factions are keen to avoid disruptions that could impact the election outcome.
North Central's Demand for Ayu's Successor
The North Central region remains adamant in its demand for Ayu’s replacement to come from their area. Kola Ologbondiyan, former PDP National Publicity Secretary, emphasized the party’s tradition of respecting constitutional guidelines, stating, “Our demand for a successor from the North Central remains firm. We believe in upholding the principles set in the party constitution.”
Aspirants from Benue State Emerge
Several PDP leaders from Benue State, where Ayu hails from, have expressed interest in the national chairmanship. Among them are former Governor Gabriel Suswam and Conrad Utaan, a businessman-turned-politician. Utaan, emphasizing inclusivity, remarked, “Leadership in the PDP should be accessible to more than just those with previous public office experience. My aim is to bring humility and dedication to this role.”
Influence of Party Governors and Stakeholders
Utaan acknowledged the significant influence that governors hold within the PDP, adding, “Governors form a substantial and indispensable faction within the party. However, adherence to law and ethical principles remains paramount.” Utaan expressed his commitment to promoting legal interpretation aligned with the PDP’s values, suggesting that the party’s future lies in respecting both formal statutes and moral responsibilities.
As the rescheduled NEC meeting approaches, the PDP remains embroiled in a struggle for leadership and direction. The November 28 meeting will likely serve as a critical juncture, determining the balance of power within Nigeria’s leading opposition party
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