A coalition of federal opposition lawmakers has raised serious concerns regarding the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing certain governors and 24 state party chairpersons of conspiring to keep Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman, in office until 2027. The accusations surfaced during a press conference held in Akokwa, Imo State, where lawmakers underscored the detrimental impact this alleged move could have on the party and the broader political landscape. The group argues that maintaining Damagum’s leadership could effectively weaken the PDP while compromising its role as a robust opposition to the ruling party.
Ikenga Ugochinyere, the spokesman for the coalition and representative for the Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency, voiced concerns about the current political climate in Nigeria. He lamented the absence of a responsive opposition amidst prevalent economic and political challenges. Ugochinyere criticized the PDP’s current trajectory, alleging that the party has been hijacked by political charlatans who are undermining its founding principles. He reflected on the party’s history, emphasizing the foundational role played by notable figures like Alex Ekwueme, Jerry Gana, and Olusegun Obasanjo in establishing the PDP as a formidable force against military rule.
Further allegations were laid against the PDP leadership’s approach to selecting a new chairman. Ugochinyere indicated that there were deliberate efforts to prevent the National Executive Committee (NEC) from selecting a substantive chairman from the North Central zone, which was the initial plan. He expressed concern that the continuation of Damagum in the acting role could pave the way for a candidate perceived as weak, undermining the party’s chances in future elections. The accusation paints a picture of internal turmoil within the party, suggesting that opportunistic individuals are prioritizing personal ambitions over the party’s integrity and political efficacy.
Moreover, Ugochinyere accused the PDP leadership of engaging in deceptive maneuvers that have stalled crucial meetings necessary for party cohesion. He claimed that excuses surrounding the scheduling of NEC meetings have become commonplace, indicating a lack of commitment to addressing the party’s challenges. The delays in organizing these meetings have further exacerbated the sense of disarray within the PDP, leading critics to suggest that the leadership is unwilling or unable to confront the issues at hand. This situation leaves party members and supporters disillusioned with the current state of affairs.
Ugochinyere also brought to light concerns about the perceived alliance between the PDP leadership and the ruling APC, particularly mentioning the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike. By associating with the ruling party, the PDP’s leadership faces accusations of betraying its foundational mission as a robust opposition. The coalition of lawmakers expressed deep frustration with this trajectory, arguing that such political maneuvering undermines the credibility and longstanding legacy of the PDP.
In summary, the coalition’s accusal of the PDP leadership highlights underlying tensions within the party, emphasizing a perceived conspiracy to maintain power among a select group while weakening the party’s overall influence. These claims not only reflect dissatisfaction with the current party leadership but also a broader critique of a perceived lack of integrity and accountability within the PDP. The situation presents an urgent call to action for reform and re-establishment of the party’s core values, focusing on the need for a strong, unified opposition to effectively challenge the ruling party in the coming years.
