The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) camp led by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is reportedly planning to confront those against its efforts to maintain the position of the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum.
Henzodaily reports that four governors, Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Agbu Kefas (Taraba), are aligned with Wike in supporting Damagum.
However, the PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman, Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, and Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, are reportedly opposed to Damagum continuing in an acting capacity.
Since he was appointed acting National Chairman following Senator Iyorchia Ayu’s court-ordered removal, Damagum has faced criticism from party leaders and calls for his resignation have intensified.
In an interview with Punch, a senior member of the PDP alleged that the Wike faction had finalised plans to suspend some of its opponents.
The source revealed that in the coming days, Wike’s faction would take measures such as expulsion and suspension to neutralise members of the opposing camp, particularly those loyal to the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, at the state, local government and ward levels.
The party member also stated that Wike’s camp targeted the representative for Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency of Imo State, Ikenga Ugochinyere, for criticising the FCT minister and the Damagum-led NWC.
The source claimed that Ugochinyere’s expulsion was part of Wike’s faction’s broader strategy to consolidate power by removing or silencing opponents.
The source said, “There’s a deliberate plan to move against party members and even members of the public who oppose their interests.”
Reacting, a member of the NEC and Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, dismissed the claims, asserting that it was normal for individuals to pursue their aspirations.
He said, “I want to believe that this is in the realm of speculation. Ultimately, people want their aspirations and ideals to take precedence.
“So, if there are those who believe the Damagum-led NWC is underperforming, it is only natural, as not all PDP members are on the same page. Therefore, I see no reason the Damagum-led NWC would use its position to target anyone. The only thing I believe Damagum is doing is working to reconcile issues and members within the party.”
Similarly, a NEC member from the North Central and immediate past PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, commended the Board of Trustees for supporting the call to select a substantive National Chairman from the zone.
He said, “We commend the BoT for supporting the call for North Central to nominate a replacement who will complete Ayu’s term.”
Also, a former National Secretary of the party, Umar Ibrahim-Tsauri, expressed confidence that the PDP would overcome its internal challenges.
He stated, “PDP is a political party founded by Nigerians for Nigerians. Regardless of the current issues, it is a party that cannot be defeated by internal crises. We always find a way to overcome them.”