PDP Governors Step in to Resolve Leadership Crisis, Restore Party Unity

PDP governors nullify suspensions, mandate return to status quo as efforts to resolve leadership disputes continue

Governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have stepped in to address the ongoing PDP leadership crisis, taking a decisive step to nullify recent suspensions imposed by feuding factions within the party. The governors urged a return to the status quo to allow room for dialogue and resolution of the disputes.

The PDP leadership crisis began when the National Working Committee (NWC), led by Acting National Chairman Amb. Umar Damagum, suspended National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba and National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade, SAN. The two were accused of insubordination and abuse of office. In retaliation, Ologunagba and Ajibade announced the suspension of Damagum and National Secretary Senator Sam Anyanwu for alleged anti-party activities, particularly their involvement in the political tensions in Rivers State between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

The crisis escalated when the Ologunagba-led faction named National Treasurer Yayari Mohammed as Damagum’s replacement. However, in an effort to restore calm, the PDP Governors’ Forum, chaired by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, intervened. Following consultations with the NWC, National Assembly Caucus, and the Board of Trustees (BoT), the governors resolved to nullify all suspensions and restore the status quo.

Temporary Peace for a Lasting Solution

Speaking after the two-day meeting in Abuja, Governor Mohammed reaffirmed that the party was not divided and that the suspensions were now nullified. “There is no faction in the PDP,” he declared, emphasizing that the governors, along with other party organs, are working towards a permanent resolution. The PDP leadership crisis, he said, is being handled as part of the party’s internal family issues, and steps are being taken to prevent further escalation.

He added that while some matters might involve legal proceedings, the party does not wish to preempt any judicial outcomes. The governors have committed to working with all parties to resolve the leadership crisis in the best interest of the PDP.

NEC Meeting Discussions Ongoing

When asked about the scheduled October 24 National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, Governor Mohammed indicated that discussions are still ongoing regarding the sanctity of the date. He assured that the governors, BoT, and NWC would sit together to determine the best course of action.

Damagum Welcomes Governors’ Intervention

In response to the decision, Amb. Umar Damagum expressed support for the intervention, stating that the governors are key figures in the party whose decisions must be respected. Speaking at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, he downplayed the leadership crisis, asserting that some individuals were merely trying to exploit the situation. “There is no crisis in the PDP as far as I am concerned,” Damagum said, calling on the media to refrain from sensationalizing the issues.

Efforts to reach Yayari Mohammed and Debo Ologunagba for comments on the resolution have so far been unsuccessful.

The PDP leadership crisis is a significant test for the party, but with the intervention of its governors and key stakeholders, there is optimism for a peaceful resolution.