A Pressure Group Pushes Back Against the Plot to Oust PDP’s Acting Chairman
A faction within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Concerned PDP League (CPDPL), is shedding light on the real reasons behind the push to remove the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum. According to the group, the move is sparked by the desire to secure the 2027 presidential ticket of the party.
CPDPL claims that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed are behind the plot. The group argues that these individuals believe Damagum’s leadership is unfavorable to their presidential ambitions and want to replace him to gain an edge.
Specifically, CPDPL points out that Damagum has refused to succumb to Atiku’s camp, leading to continued instability in the party. The group also cites the ongoing pressure to suspend Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike as another factor driving the plot to oust Damagum.
According to CPDPL, Damagum’s continued leadership is supported by sections 47(6), 35(3c), and 45(2) of the PDP constitution, which stipulate the terms of office and procedures for removing the party’s leadership.
A statement from CPDPL reads: “Our investigation has revealed that the real motive behind the pressure to remove Damagum is the fear that Atiku’s long-standing ally, Senator Iyorchia Ayu, who was recently ousted, was essential to securing his 2027 presidential bid. Similarly, Governor Bala Mohammed, who is also a presidential hopeful, is concerned that his own ambition is at risk with Damagum at the helm, as both men hail from the North East.” The group believes that the current situation is a result of a power struggle centred around the 2027 presidential ticket rather than any genuine concern for the party’s well-being.
CPDPL advises Damagum to remain steadfast and not succumb to intimidation, encouraging him not to bear pressure to convene an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
