The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has escalated as tensions rise within the leadership. A faction of the National Working Committee (NWC) has taken significant action by appointing the party’s Treasurer, Yayari Ahmed, as the new Acting National Chairman of the PDP. This move marks a major development within the party’s ongoing power struggles.
Reports indicate that the decision to appoint Ahmed followed the recent suspension of Amb. Umar Damagum from his position as Acting National Chairman, an event that has further deepened divisions within the PDP. The suspension and subsequent appointment have sparked widespread debate among party members and political analysts alike, as the leadership battle appears to be far from over.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, PDP National Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, confirmed the latest developments and provided further insight into the NWC’s decision-making process.
The statement read, “Following the suspension of His Excellency, Amb. Illiya Damagum as the Acting National Chairman of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the National Working Committee (NWC) has approved the appointment of Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as the Acting National Chairman.”
The decision to elevate Ahmed to this key leadership role was not taken lightly. According to the NWC, Ahmed’s appointment takes immediate effect and is based on the provisions of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017).
The NWC called upon all party organs, leaders, critical stakeholders, and members to remain unified during this turbulent time. Hon. Ologunagba stressed the importance of cohesion, particularly as the party leadership prepares for the highly anticipated National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024.
This upcoming NEC meeting is expected to address the current leadership crisis and chart a way forward for the party as it navigates through its internal struggles. The outcome of the meeting could have significant implications for the future of the PDP and its role in Nigeria’s political landscape.
While the leadership transition has led to concerns about the stability of the party, supporters of Ahmed believe his appointment will bring much-needed change and help steer the PDP towards greater unity and strength as the party approaches future elections.
As the situation continues to develop, all eyes will be on the PDP and its leadership as they attempt to resolve the ongoing crisis and restore order within the party’s ranks.