Why Damagum Must Go – Bode George

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has called for the immediate removal of Ambassador Illiya Umar Damagum as the party’s acting national chairman. George claims that Damagum’s extended tenure in office violates the PDP’s constitution, which limits the acting chairmanship to 90 days.

In a phone interview with Nigerian Tribune, George explained that the PDP’s constitution mandates the selection of a substantive chairman within 90 days, a deadline that has long passed. He argued that Damagum’s continued stay is part of a broader internal power struggle within the party, largely fueled by unresolved tensions over the party’s 2023 presidential ticket.

Damagum, who was appointed as acting chairman on March 28, 2023, following a court ruling that barred Senator Iyorchia Ayu from serving as chairman, has been at the center of escalating divisions within the party’s leadership. The National Working Committee (NWC) appointed Damagum, who was the party’s deputy national chairman (North), as interim leader. However, George argues that this temporary appointment should have concluded months ago, with a substantive chairman being named by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).

Recent weeks have seen the internal dispute worsen, with factions within the NWC engaging in suspensions and counter-suspensions. Damagum and National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu have been locked in a power struggle with other senior party members, including National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba and National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade. Damagum’s camp has called for investigations into these officers, while the opposing faction has announced Damagum and Anyanwu’s suspension over alleged anti-party activities.

George criticized the situation as emblematic of the personal battles being waged by key party figures, especially in anticipation of the 2027 presidential race. He accused some members of the PDP of acting out of self-interest rather than following the party’s constitution, which, he said, is undermining the PDP’s ability to serve as the main opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Reflecting on the party’s history, George pointed out that PDP founding leaders like Dr. Alex Ekwueme, who lost the party’s presidential ticket to former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999, respected the party’s constitution and process. He warned that if the current leaders continue to disregard the constitution, it could weaken the party’s chances in the 2027 elections.

Meanwhile, the Adamawa State chapter of the PDP has urged the national leadership to handle the crisis with care. State party chairman Aliyu Shehu emphasized that resolving the issue in the interest of the party is crucial for its survival and success in upcoming elections.

“We must prioritize the party’s and Nigeria’s interests over personal agendas. Whether Damagum stays or goes, what matters most is unity and victory in 2027,” Shehu stated.