The Peoples Democratic Party has rejected claims of bias against its Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, in the process of selecting a new National Secretary.
The party dismissed these allegations as unfounded and as part of an effort by certain factions to sow division within its ranks.
Alhaji Yusuf Dingyadi, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the PDP National Chairman, addressed the accusations on behalf of the party’s leadership. He emphasized that the claims were baseless and did not reflect the reality of the party’s internal workings.
Dingyadi reaffirmed Damagum’s dedication to fostering unity and strengthening the PDP’s leadership, stressing that the Acting National Chairman has worked tirelessly to ensure the party remains resilient despite challenges, especially following the 2023 general elections. He also noted that allegations accusing Damagum of undermining the National Working Committee were misleading.
On specific claims, Dingyadi clarified that Damagum was not in Abuja when Senator Samuel Anyanwu resumed at the party’s national secretariat, explaining that the Acting Chairman was in Damaturu attending a family event at the time.
Dingyadi further alleged that the attacks against Damagum were being driven by interest groups, particularly from the northern region, who sought to impose a leadership that aligned with their agenda and suppressed internal opposition. He emphasized that, despite these pressures, Damagum has remained committed to upholding internal democracy and maintaining political stability within the PDP.
Addressing rumors of Damagum’s connections with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Dingyadi dismissed these as unfounded, reiterating that Damagum’s loyalty to the PDP remains steadfast.
Since taking office as Acting National Chairman, Damagum has worked to engage with party members nationwide, prioritizing reconciliation over punitive measures. Dingyadi noted that Damagum has implemented structured reconciliation mechanisms to address disciplinary issues, rather than resorting to politically motivated suspensions or expulsions.
Dingyadi concluded by reaffirming that Damagum is a duly recognized member of the National Working Committee and is supported by the party’s constitution. He warned that efforts to undermine Damagum’s leadership would only weaken the PDP and urged party members to focus on unity and the long-term stability of the party.
