PDP Faction Appoints New Acting National Chairman Following Damagum’s Suspension

A faction within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has made a noteworthy decision by appointing Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as its new Acting National Chairman.

This appointment comes in the wake of ongoing turmoil and factional disputes within the party, which have raised concerns about its unity and effectiveness moving forward.

The decision to appoint Mohammed follows the suspension of the previous acting national chairman, Amb. Illiya Damagum.

Reports indicate that this move is part of a broader effort to address the internal challenges facing the PDP.

The Federal High Court in Abuja intervened recently, issuing a restraining order against the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the PDP, thereby preventing them from removing Damagum from his role.

This court ruling underscores the complexity of the situation, as it highlights the legal implications of the faction’s actions and the ongoing power struggle within the party.

In light of the court’s injunction, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, announced the new appointment through an official statement released on Friday.

This statement outlined the reasons behind the decision, clarifying the party’s internal processes and constitutional framework.

“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 statement reads.

The appointment is said to take immediate effect and is in accordance with the provisions of the PDP’s constitution, as amended in 2017. This detail is crucial, as it reflects the party’s commitment to adhering to its own rules, even in the midst of controversy.

The NWC, which plays a pivotal role in the party’s governance, is expected to guide the PDP through this turbulent period.
Ologunagba further emphasized the need for unity among party members, calling on all organs, leaders, critical stakeholders, and members of the PDP to remain focused during this critical time.

He stated, “The NWC calls on all Organs, leaders, critical stakeholders, and members of our great Party to remain focused at this critical time especially as the NWC commences arrangements towards the holding of the Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting already scheduled for Thursday, 24th October 2024.”

This call for solidarity is particularly important as the party gears up for the NEC meeting, which is likely to address key issues and set the agenda for the PDP moving forward.

The current situation within the PDP reflects broader challenges faced by political parties in Nigeria. As factions vie for control and influence, the ability of party leadership to maintain cohesion and drive strategic initiatives becomes paramount.

The PDP, once the dominant political party in Nigeria, has experienced some setbacks in recent years, including electoral losses and leadership crises that have undermined its position in the political landscape.

Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed’s appointment could signal a new direction for the party, depending on how effectively he can navigate the existing conflicts and work toward rebuilding trust among members.

His leadership will be put to the test as he confronts the realities of party politics, including the need to reconcile different factions and unify the party ahead of future elections.

As the PDP prepares for the upcoming NEC meeting, members and observers alike will be watching closely to see how the party addresses its internal challenges and outlines its vision for the future.

The stakes are high, and the decisions made in the coming weeks could have lasting implications for the party’s ability to reclaim its former prominence in Nigerian politics.

With the political landscape constantly evolving, the PDP’s response to its current crisis will be critical in determining its path forward.

The appointment of Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as the Acting National Chairman of the PDP marks a significant moment for the party as it navigates a complex web of internal and external challenges.

The next steps taken by the NWC and the newly appointed chairman will be crucial in shaping the future of the PDP and its role in Nigeria’s political arena.