The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is confronting a new wave of internal strife as it approaches its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on April 18, 2024.
The party’s ability to decisively address anti-party activities among its members is being scrutinized.
Recently, a group of PDP federal lawmakers, led by Hon Ikenga UgoChinyere, called for the resignation of the acting national chairman, Umar Iliya Damagun, over allegations of anti-party behavior.
They criticized the party leadership’s inaction regarding political developments in Rivers State and President Bola Tinubu’s involvement.
The lawmakers, representing a coalition of at least 60 members from the National Assembly, accuse Damagum of orchestrating local government leadership changes and incorporating APC members into PDP caretaker committees.
They argue that under Damagum’s leadership, the PDP has been weakening, evidenced by election losses and legal challenges.
The statement from the lawmakers warns of a potential party collapse if Damagum remains in power, supported by his alleged APC allies.
They have vowed to disassociate from Damagum’s leadership until he steps down.
As the PDP’s fortunes have declined since losing the presidential seat in 2015 and the 2023 general elections, the upcoming NEC meeting in Abuja is seen as a critical juncture for addressing the party’s internal conflicts and charting a path forward.
