PDP tensions rise as Damagum’s role threatens 2027 presidential ambitions

The Concerned PDP League (CPDPL), a pressure group within Nigeria’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has raised alarms over internal pressures on the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, to vacate his position.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and made available to The Guardian, the CPDPL attributes this push to a calculated bid by certain party figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, to secure their ambitions for the 2027 presidential ticket.

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According to the group, Damagum’s leadership is perceived as a hindrance to Atiku’s political goals, particularly after the abrupt departure of Damagum’s predecessor, Senator Iyorchia Ayu, whom Atiku considered a crucial ally. For Governor Mohammed, a noted presidential hopeful and chair of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Damagum’s continued role raises concerns due to their shared North-East origins, which the CPDPL argues could complicate Mohammed’s aspirations.

The CPDPL further claims that some influential members are pressuring Damagum to suspend the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, indicating deeper divisions within the party. Wike was appointed FCT minister by President Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) but remains a member of the PDP. He is also a close ally of the under fire Damagum.

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However, the CPDPL highlights that Damagum’s tenure is constitutionally protected by sections 47(6), 35(3c), and 45(2) of the PDP constitution, and urges him to resist any attempts at intimidation and maintain his focus on party unity.

“What is playing out in our great party today, is all about 2027 presidential ambitions nothing more,” the group said, and urged Damagum, not to succumb to but to continue to stabilise and unite the party.

“He should not allow anybody to intimidate him into calling for NEC meeting,” the group stated.