KEY POINTS
- Atiku backs the effort to remove PDP Acting Chairman Umar Damagum.
- Seven governors support the removal, while four back Damagum’s retention.
- The PDP has established reconciliation and disciplinary committees to resolve conflicts.
Seven PDP governors, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, are advocating for the removal of Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum. On the other hand, four governors, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, support his retention.
The pro-Damagum governors are aligned with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, who has had conflicts with no the PDP Governors’ Forum.
Atiku and Wike have been at odds since last year’s general elections, when Wike led a group of governors to oppose Atiku’s presidential candidacy.
Now, Atiku is reportedly in contact with anti-Damagum members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), signaling his support for the push to replace Damagum.
Atiku communicates his support
A senior PDP NWC member confirmed that Atiku had reached out to anti-Damagum forces, showing solidarity.
“Atiku has spoken to us and assured us that he supports our efforts for justice, fairness, and equity in the party. He encouraged us to continue advocating for adherence to the PDP Constitution,” the source revealed.
Damagum, who took over as acting chairman after the removal of Iyorchia Ayu, has faced criticism for not implementing reforms to reinvigorate the party.
According to Punch, the situation intensified when Damagum’s NWC gave control of the Rivers State PDP structure to Wike instead of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, angering other PDP governors.
Reconciliation efforts underway
In response to the ongoing internal conflicts, the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) has formed two committees. One is led by former Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Ikimi, which focuses on disciplinary matters, while another, led by former Osun State Governor Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, works on reconciliation efforts.
These committees have begun their work, and party leaders are urging members to cooperate with them.
Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor called for unity and urged members to direct any grievances to the appropriate committees rather than engage in public disputes.
Furthermore, he expressed confidence in the committees’ ability to address party issues and reconcile differences.
