PDP NWC Members Reject Damagum’s Appointment of Wike’s Ally as Party Counsel

A major rift has emerged within the leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as eleven members of the National Working Committee (NWC) have publicly rejected the appointment of J.Y. Musa as the party’s legal representative at the Appeal and Supreme Courts. The appointment was made by the acting national chairman, Iliya Damagum, without the approval of the party’s leadership.

In a petition dated January 21, the dissenting NWC members urged the courts to disregard Musa’s nomination in the ongoing appeal involving the embattled National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu. They argued that the appointment was unconstitutional, emphasizing that only the National Legal Adviser has the authority to hire external solicitors, as outlined in Article 42 of the PDP constitution.

The controversy stems from a December 20, 2024, ruling by an Enugu appeal court, which upheld a previous high court decision removing Anyanwu as National Secretary. The appointment of Musa, reportedly an ally of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has intensified internal party tensions, with Wike’s influence being seen as a major factor in the PDP’s current crisis.

In their letter addressed to the courts, the NWC members stated that Damagum’s directive did not reflect the decision of the party’s leadership. They called on the judiciary to disregard any legal representation arranged by the acting chairman, reiterating that the responsibility for such appointments lies solely with the National Legal Adviser.

Among those who signed the petition were Deputy National Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade, National Treasurer Yayari Ahmed, Deputy National Secretary Setonji Ikoshoedo, National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, National Financial Secretary Daniel Woyengikuro, National Women Leader Amina Darasimi Bryhm, National Auditor Obi Okechukwu, National Vice Chairman (South East) Ali Odefa, National Vice Chairman (North East) Emanuel Bovoa, and National Vice Chairman (North West) Hayatu Gwarzo.