PDP Faces Growing Tensions Over Delay in NEC Meeting

Tensions are mounting within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as pressure builds on the acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, to convene the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024. According to the party’s constitution, NEC meetings should be held quarterly, but Damagum has yet to fulfill this obligation amidst ongoing internal disputes.

Many PDP members are increasingly frustrated by his apparent hesitation to approve the upcoming NEC meeting, fearing that any delay could violate the party’s constitutional requirements. Although the meeting is officially listed on the calendar, concerns are growing among party leaders and members that Damagum may be intentionally delaying its approval.

Insiders within the PDP suggest that Damagum’s reluctance may stem from political maneuvering over the national chairmanship, which is expected to return to the North Central region following the exit of former chairman Dr. Iyorchia Ayu. Party rules indicate that the chairmanship should revert to the North Central region, but Damagum, who is from the North East, is reportedly unwilling to relinquish his position.

This issue has deepened divisions among PDP governors. Some support Damagum’s continued leadership, while others—led by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike—believe that a national convention should be convened to decide the party’s leadership. Wike’s faction is also pushing for broader reforms within the PDP, including resolving the chairmanship issue, further complicating the party’s internal dynamics.

The National Working Committee (NWC) is similarly divided on whether the NEC meeting should proceed, reflecting a broader leadership crisis that has seen various factions issuing suspensions and counter-suspensions in recent weeks. Some NWC members argue that the NEC meeting is essential to restore order within the party.

An anonymous NWC member expressed that Damagum has no choice but to hold the NEC meeting. “Damagum is afraid of convening the NEC, even though it’s on the schedule. But it must be done. The only way to resolve this is for the NEC to meet. The chairmanship belongs to the North Central,” the member stated.

The source further added, “If the right thing is done, and the North Central gets its rightful place, the party will come back stronger. Nigerians are watching.”

Despite uncertainty about whether the NEC meeting will take place as planned, expectations remain high for the party to adhere to its official schedule. Frustration among PDP members has been growing, especially after recent efforts to suspend Damagum. The suspension sparked significant reactions, highlighting the ongoing internal discord.

“The uproar after the suspension was clear—people want Damagum out,” said the NWC member. “The NEC meeting is scheduled, and it should go ahead.”

Attempts to reach the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, for comment were unsuccessful.