As PDP’s 99th NEC meeting approaches, indications suggest Umar Damagum will continue as acting chairman amid leadership challenges.
As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepares for its 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on November 28, reports suggest that Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman, may retain his position into 2024.
Damagum is expected to meet with PDP state chairmen and the FCT chairman today at Wadata Plaza in Abuja. This meeting, seen as a precursor to the NEC gathering, will allow Damagum and the National Working Committee (NWC) to engage with key party stakeholders.
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Since assuming the role of acting chairman following Senator Iyorchia Ayu’s removal by court order, Damagum has faced criticism for his handling of internal party disputes, including the escalating political crisis in Rivers State between Governor Siminalaye Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Critics blame his perceived indecisiveness for deepening party issues.
Former National Publicity Secretary Kola Ologbondiyan criticised Damagum, asserting that his continued leadership has contributed to the party’s losses in Edo and Ondo gubernatorial elections.
“His inability to manage the PDP’s internal politics effectively is responsible for a series of losses. His continued stay will lead to more defeats,” Ologbondiyan stated.
However, Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor argued that Damagum cannot be solely blamed for the party’s electoral struggles.
He cited external factors such as “federal might” deployed by the ruling APC during elections in Edo and Ondo.
During the 98th NEC meeting in April, party leaders agreed to decide Damagum’s future at the upcoming session. While the meeting has been delayed multiple times, insiders suggest the current focus is not on replacing Damagum but on preparing for the next elective convention in late 2025, where a new NWC will be selected.
A senior PDP official revealed, “Many stakeholders feel it’s impractical to replace Damagum now for a term shorter than 10 months when a permanent chairman will be elected in 2025. For now, the focus is on managing the acting chairman.”
Legal complications also play a role. An ongoing court injunction prevents Damagum’s replacement, further consolidating his position.
The meeting between the NWC and state chairmen is expected to serve as a platform for Damagum’s supporters to rally backing ahead of the NEC session.
A party insider hinted that a vote of confidence could be passed during the NEC meeting to solidify Damagum’s leadership.
“Wednesday’s meeting is primarily a familiarisation session, but it will also allow Damagum’s supporters to secure the commitment of the state chairmen,” the source disclosed.
Damagum’s retention is partly attributed to PDP’s constitutional requirement that a chairman’s replacement comes from the same region as the outgoing leader.
Both Damagum and Ayu hail from the North, making regional considerations a key factor.
As political tensions simmer, Damagum continues to engage with party stakeholders to address grievances and foster unity.
The upcoming NEC meeting marks a critical juncture for the PDP as it grapples with leadership disputes and electoral setbacks. Party leaders are working to stabilise internal politics while gearing up for the 2027 general elections.
Despite the challenges, the party remains focused on leveraging the November 28 NEC meeting to build consensus, reinforce leadership, and strategise for future successes. Whether Damagum’s leadership can unite the PDP or deepen its divisions remains to be seen.
