Chairman of the Governors Forum of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, has emphasized that the PDP remains united and free from any factions. His assertion comes in light of ongoing tensions and leadership crises within the party, which have recently intensified due to internal disputes.
The declaration was made by the Governor of Bauchi on Friday at the Government House while responding to questions from journalists regarding the current state of the party. Bala's comments were aimed at quelling rumors of division within the PDP amidst the turmoil surrounding the party's leadership.
This comes as the leadership crisis within the party intensifies, fueled by a wave of suspicions announced on Thursday and Friday by two factions of the National Working Committee (NWC). These developments have raised concerns about the party's stability and its ability to present a united front as it prepares for upcoming political challenges.
Bala spoke during a visit from the embattled Acting National Chairman, Umar Iliya Damagum, who led PDP Chairmen from the North East to the Government House in Bauchi. This visit is significant, coming amid reports that Umar Damagum has been suspended from his position, adding to the turmoil within the party’s hierarchy.
There were reports that a faction of the National Working Committee of PDP had suspended Umar Damagum [/b]and National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, from their offices for alleged disloyalty to the party. In the wake of this suspension, Ahmed Yayari from Gombe State was announced as Damagum’s replacement, further complicating the power dynamics within the party.
Earlier, a faction of the NWC aligned with Umar Damagum also announced the suspension of the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, and the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, for similar allegations of disloyalty to the party. These suspensions have sparked a debate about loyalty and governance within the PDP, with many calling for a resolution to the ongoing conflicts.
Despite these suspensions and the apparent factionalization within the party, Bala Mohammed maintained that the PDP remained intact and capable of addressing its internal crises. He expressed confidence in the party's ability to navigate the challenges it faces, stating, “I would say that we have met and discussed these situations extensively with the Acting National Chairman and we have agreed to work together along with other party organs – the BOT, the members of the Governors’ Forum, the Caucus of the Senate, and the House of Representatives to resolve all these issues, and that is the major takeaway of this visit.”
Bala Mohammed assured party members and supporters that the PDP would deepen stockholdings and collaboration to address every issue that disparages members. His commitment to unity within the party reflects a desire to move past the current tensions and focus on collective goals.
He described the allegations of disloyalty levelled against Umar Damagum, as well as the reported plan to impeach him (Governor Mohammed) as Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, as mere perceptions that stem from misunderstandings and miscommunication. “These are just manifestations because of body language,” he noted, indicating that he believes the issues can be resolved through open dialogue and cooperation.
Bala Mohammed stressed that, “We have discussed everything on relationships and interrelations and disagreements, and we have decided that henceforth we will not allow gaps.” This statement signifies a commitment to fostering better communication within the party to prevent future misunderstandings and conflicts.
He, however, expressed regret over his disagreement with Umar Damagum, acknowledging that it had been costly for both sides. “I took a position that was against him, and certainly, you are going to have these disparaging manifestations that we have now decided henceforth we will not allow it,” he said, underscoring the importance of unity and collaboration within the party moving forward.
Bala criticized journalists for creating imaginary divisions within the PDP, asserting that, “We are not recognizing any faction.” His comments reflect a broader frustration with how media narratives can influence public perception and internal dynamics within political parties.
He reiterated, “We are together as a party, and we will definitely resolve all our issues. There is no faction in the PDP. That is the benefit of doubt that Damgum has done to me by coming and agreeing that we should do that. His insistence on unity highlights his resolve to maintain a cohesive party image amidst external pressures and internal conflicts.
“The final decision does not rest on two of us but other members that are stakeholders within the PDP Governors’ Forum, within the BOT, and within the caucus and other stakeholders in the party,” he added, emphasizing that collective decision-making will be essential for the PDP’s path forward. His statements illustrate a commitment to inclusivity and shared governance as the party navigates its current challenges.