PDP NWC faction suspends national chairman, Damagum, secretary

The turmoil within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) continues to escalate, with a faction of the National Working Committee (NWC) announcing the suspension of acting National Chairman Umar Damagum and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, citing allegations of disloyalty to the party.

Previously, a faction aligned with Damagum had taken action against National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade and National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, suspending them for similar claims of disloyalty. In a surprising development, Ologunagba issued a statement on Friday that formally announced the suspension of both Damagum and Anyanwu.

The statement detailed that the NWC had thoroughly reviewed various complaints against Damagum and Anyanwu, particularly focusing on a letter they sent to the Court of Appeal in relation to Appeal No: CA/PH/307/2024. This case involves the PDP’s stance concerning 27 former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who vacated their positions upon switching allegiance from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The NWC condemned what they termed as the “anti-party activity” of the acting chairman and the national secretary, asserting that their actions were in direct violation of the PDP Constitution, as amended in 2017, as well as their Oath of Office. In light of this, the NWC invoked Sections 57, 58, and 59 of the party’s Constitution to officially suspend both officials from their roles. They have also referred the matter to the National Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.

During the suspension, Damagum and Anyanwu will be barred from participating in all NWC meetings, activities, and programs until the National Disciplinary Committee completes its inquiry. This latest round of suspensions highlights the deepening rifts within the party and raises questions about leadership stability as factions vie for control.

The ongoing crisis underscores the challenges facing the PDP as it grapples with internal divisions and attempts to maintain its relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape. With both factions actively pursuing their agendas, the party’s future remains uncertain, as loyalty and unity are increasingly tested.

As the situation develops, the implications for the PDP’s strategy and effectiveness in the upcoming elections will be closely monitored, with party members and supporters alike hoping for a resolution that restores cohesion and focus on broader political goals. This unfolding drama not only affects the party’s internal dynamics but also reflects the intense power struggles that characterize Nigerian politics today.