The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has defended its Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, following allegations of bias in the appointment of the National Secretary.
Damagum Accused of Favoritism
Some PDP members have accused Damagum of backing a particular candidate for the National Secretary position, allegedly undermining the National Working Committee (NWC) in the process.
PDP Responds to Allegations
In a statement on Monday, Alhaji Yusuf Dingyadi, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the PDP Chairman, dismissed the allegations as false and politically motivated.
“It is unfair to accuse Ambassador Damagum, who has worked tirelessly to unite the party, of sabotaging the NWC’s efforts,” Dingyadi said.
He further clarified that Damagum was not even in Abuja on the day of the dispute, as he had traveled to Damaturu for a family wedding.
Factional Tensions & Alleged Political Agendas
Dingyadi claimed the allegations were being pushed by party factions, particularly from the northern region, who are attempting to install a compliant leadership for their own political gains.
“The rumors linking him to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike are baseless. Damagum remains committed to the party’s unity and progress,” he added.
Damagum’s Leadership & Party Reconciliation Efforts
As Acting Chairman, Damagum has been instrumental in:
Holding regular meetings to strengthen the party
Managing disciplinary issues through reconciliation
Promoting internal party cohesion over personal interests
Dingyadi warned critics that attacking Damagum could harm the party’s stability and credibility, stressing that his leadership is rooted in constitutional provisions.
“Those making these accusations are ultimately undermining the PDP itself,” he concluded.
With internal tensions rising, the PDP will need strategic leadership to navigate these disputes and maintain party unity ahead of future elections.
