By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Turmoil over PDP Chairmanship
Ahead of the Peoples Democratic Party‘s National Executive Committee meeting set for October 24, there’s growing discord among the party’s key figures concerning the zoning for the replacement of the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum. Since 2023, the party has faced internal strife, with some members blaming Damagum for failing to enact necessary reforms.
Members, particularly from the North Central region, are demanding Damagum’s replacement, insisting that the new chairman must emerge from their zone. They point to Section 47(6) of the PDP’s constitution, which mandates that when a vacancy occurs, the new appointee must be from the same region as the outgoing officer to finish the term.
Speaking to Saturday PUNCH, Segun Showunmi, a 2023 PDP governorship aspirant from Ogun State, clashed with former National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, over which zone should produce Damagum’s successor. Ologbondiyan argued that the North Central should nominate the replacement, stating, “We are demanding that North Central be given its rightful place in the National Working Committee, which is the position of National Chairman of the party.”
Showunmi, however, disagreed, asserting, “The issues within the North Central were at the core of the former chairman’s removal. I’m from the South, and I believe I have the right solutions to move this party forward. This isn’t about regional entitlement; it’s about revitalizing the PDP, bringing in young voices, and ensuring we don’t devolve into a one-party state.”
As tensions rise within the PDP, the upcoming meeting could prove crucial in deciding the party’s next steps and leadership.
Turmoil Over PDP Chairmanship