The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is witnessing an intensification of internal dynamics as the National Executive Committee (NEC) has decided to extend Ambassador Umar Ilya Damagum’s tenure as Acting National Chairman until at least August or September.
This move is seen as a strategic play by the pro-Atiku and pro-Wike factions within the party, with an eye on the upcoming 2027 elections.
The decision to maintain Damagum’s position is officially aimed at fostering reconciliation and peace within the party.
However, insiders suggest that the underlying motive is to secure control over the party’s national convention and the election process leading up to 2027.
Observers note that the Wike faction appeared to have an upper hand at the recent NEC meeting. Yet, the true test of power between the rival camps is expected in the coming months during the party’s congresses across 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
These congresses will produce delegates who will play a crucial role in the national convention slated for the end of next year.
The states involved in these pivotal congresses include Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Niger, Ondo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, and the FCT.
Tensions are rising over the formation of caretaker committees, particularly in Rivers State, where Governor Siminalayi Fubara has expressed dissatisfaction with the list, alleging it favors the Wike faction.
The Wike faction’s strategy hinges on maintaining Damagum’s leadership beyond August, aiming to secure a majority of its supporters as elected delegates in the upcoming congresses.
This would position them advantageously for the 2027 electoral battle.
Confidential sources reveal that while the NEC has indicated Damagum will oversee party affairs until at least August, with a potential review in September, the real contest lies in the appointment of a North Central member to succeed Damagum’s current role, with Damagum potentially ascending to the Chairmanship.
The leadership dynamics within the PDP are complex, with the North East governors asserting that the Deputy National Chairman (North) should be a collective decision by the northern caucus, possibly favoring a candidate from Nasarawa State.
The appointment of Barrister Humphrey Abba, former Kogi State PDP Chairman, as Director-General of the PDP Governors Forum, is seen as a conciliatory gesture towards the North Central faction, which has been vocal about replacing Damagum and completing the term of the ousted National Chairman, Senator Iyorchia Ayu.
