Leadership Turmoil Deepens as PDP NEC Meetings Face Persistent Delays

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The People's Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria's main opposition force, is grappling with escalating internal discord as repeated postponements of its National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings unsettle stakeholders and exacerbate a leadership crisis.

Efforts to replace the party's acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, have been repeatedly stalled, leaving the PDP in a state of uncertainty. Originally scheduled for August 15, the NEC meeting was first pushed to October 24, then November 28, and now faces an indefinite delay. These disruptions, officially attributed to logistical concerns, have provoked sharp criticism from within the party's ranks.

Behind the Delays

The PDP leadership justified the latest postponement, citing the need to attend the funeral of the late Akwa Ibom First Lady, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno. Yet, many party members suspect ulterior motives, accusing the Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC) of using delays to prolong his tenure. Critics argue that this undermines the party’s constitution, which calls for the immediate resolution of leadership gaps.

Kola Ologbondiyan, a prominent voice from the North Central region and former PDP National Publicity Secretary, expressed frustration, labeling the postponements a "disrespect for constitutional order." According to him, respecting the constitution and allowing a North Central representative to complete the suspended Iyorchia Ayu’s tenure is essential to restoring credibility.

Factions and Fractures

Internal divisions within the PDP have deepened, with factions forming around Damagum and other influential figures. Damagum enjoys the backing of some governors, notably allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Conversely, others aligned with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar are determined to oust him before March 2025.

Austin Okai, a PDP chieftain from North Central, criticized the governors for prioritizing personal ambitions for 2027 over resolving the party’s current crises. “The acting National Chairman and National Secretary have failed to act effectively. The focus should be on the party’s survival, not individual goals,” Okai said, calling for more decisive action.

Allegations of Anti-Party Activities

Further complicating matters, some party members have accused Damagum and other officials of engaging in covert discussions with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Representative Ikenga Ugochinyere alleged that recent secret meetings between PDP leaders and APC officials signal a betrayal of the party’s values. "These actions risk rendering the PDP irrelevant," he warned.

Governors Demand Action

Amid the growing discontent, the PDP Governors' Forum has issued a stern directive to the NWC, urging it to convene the NEC meeting by February 2025 at the latest. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State emphasized the need for a timeline to address the party's pressing issues, including leadership disputes and ongoing legal battles.

A Path Forward?

The PDP's challenges extend beyond its leadership woes, as its relevance in Nigeria's political landscape continues to wane. With 2027 elections looming, the party faces mounting pressure to resolve its internal conflicts and present a united front. Stakeholders agree that failing to address these issues could diminish the party's ability to challenge the ruling APC effectively.

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