A group of federal opposition lawmakers has leveled accusations against certain governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and 24 state party chairpersons, alleging a scheme to keep the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, in his position until 2027, which they believe would undermine the party’s strength.
As reported by Punch, the lawmakers voiced their concerns during a press briefing held in Akokwa, Imo State, on Sunday evening.
Ikenga Ugochinyere, the spokesperson for the coalition and representative for Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency in Imo State, stated, “Our country is currently grappling with various economic and political issues. However, what’s noticeably absent is a dynamic and accountable opposition.
“The PDP is supposed to spearhead the opposition, yet we see political opportunists seizing control of the party and transforming it into a mere tool for the ruling party.
“Many of you reached out to me yesterday following the governors’ meeting in Jos, expressing concerns that the PDP is finished. It’s disheartening to see a party founded in 1998 by visionary leaders like Alex Ekwueme, Jerry Gana, Atiku Abubakar, and Olusegun Obasanjo—who collectively ended 16 years of military rule—now being trivialized by current leaders.
“Umar Damagum and Samuel Anyanwu are disregarding the important expectations of the Nigerian populace.”
He further alleged that efforts have been made to block the National Executive Committee from choosing a permanent chairman from the North Central region, as was initially planned.
Ugochinyere continued, “They intend for Umar Damagum to continue acting as National Chairman and remain in that role until 2027, paving the way for a weak candidate to be presented for the presidential election.
“We have impostors among us lacking integrity and honor. The ruling party must be amused by their attempts to undermine their own party.
“Initially, they cited a Sallah holiday and postponed it. Since last year, they have consistently delayed the NEC meetings. To this day, there has been no meeting, just a series of excuses. The national leaders of the PDP seem to be mingling with APC leaders, even holding meetings in London.”
He also accused the party’s leadership of fostering a political alliance with the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike.
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