Court Rules Damagum Can Only Be Replaced Through National Convention

A Federal High Court has affirmed that PDP Chairman Umar Damagum can only be removed through a national convention, dismissing attempts to replace him prematurely

In a recent ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja declared that Umar Damagum can only be replaced as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman through a national convention. Justice Peter Lifu made this judgment on Friday, asserting that any attempt to remove Damagum without following proper procedures would violate the PDP constitution.

The case, where the court ruled Damagum can only be replaced through convention, was brought by Senator Umar Maina, who argued that secret meetings were being held to oust Damagum unlawfully. Maina, representing PDP’s Yobe state chapter, claimed that plans were underway to replace Damagum with former Kogi State Deputy Governor, Phillip Salawu.

The plaintiff, through his counsel, cited several articles from the PDP constitution, requesting the court to prevent any unlawful removal. The court agreed that Damagum can only be replaced through convention, upholding the party’s constitutional framework.

Justice Lifu further clarified that the PDP’s leadership roles must adhere to the principle of regional rotation. He emphasized that removing Damagum without a national convention, scheduled for December 2025, would be a breach of the party’s rules.

Additionally, the court barred the PDP National Executive Committee and Board of Trustees from taking any actions against Damagum until the proper procedure is followed, solidifying the stance that Damagum can only be replaced through convention.

This ruling reinforces that any deviation from the constitution would undermine the party’s democratic structure, ensuring that Damagum remains in office until the national convention.