Ambassador Umar Damagum, acting National Chairman of the PDP, may step down next week as party governors express concern over internal factionalism. A meeting in Ondo State has led to calls for unity ahead of the upcoming National Executive Committee meeting scheduled for October 24.
In a significant development within the People's Democratic Party (PDP), indications have emerged that Ambassador Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman, may step down from his position next week. This decision comes after a critical meeting of the party’s governors in Akure, Ondo State, where concerns over factionalization within the National Working Committee (NWC) were discussed.
Sources close to the meeting revealed that the governors, alarmed by the divisions within the party, agreed on the necessity of unity to preserve the PDP’s integrity. The meeting, which occurred before the official kickoff of the PDP governorship campaign rally, was attended by key figures, including Damagum and the PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja.
During a virtual gathering held the day before, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State expressed his discontent over the ongoing crisis and its potential repercussions on his reelection bid in 2026. He challenged fellow governors on their stance regarding the party leadership, particularly addressing Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State for not supporting the North-Central region's bid to maintain the chairmanship.
In light of the discussions, it was determined that Damagum would retain his position temporarily, pending the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting set for October 24. This meeting is expected to address the nomination for the chairmanship and the possibility of setting a date for a national convention.
Moreover, the governors resolved that all party members should withdraw pending court cases related to the leadership crisis. A recent Federal High Court ruling in Abuja had mandated the party’s NEC and Board of Trustees to refrain from removing Damagum as acting chairman.
In a united front, the PDP Governors' Forum issued a communiqué reiterating the importance of party cohesion, stating that there are no factions within the party. They urged all members to focus on their commitment to the PDP's growth and stability.
As the party navigates this tumultuous period, the upcoming NEC meeting will be crucial in determining the future leadership of the PDP and addressing the concerns that have led to the current crisis.
