The battle for the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is heating up between the supporters of Atiku and Wike factions, despite the recent decision by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to maintain Ambassador Umar Ilya Damagum as the Acting National Chairman until at least August or September.
The struggle for dominance within the party is expected to intensify over the next few months as the PDP plans to conduct congresses in 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), according to a source who preferred to remain anonymous.
“The real test of strength between the two sides will come up over the next few months when the party is scheduled to conduct its congresses in 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).”
“These congresses will determine the leaders who will play pivotal roles in the party’s national convention, slated for the end of next year, and in other pre-2027 election activities,” the source disclosed.
Controversy has erupted over the formation of caretaker committees in some states, notably in Rivers State, where Governor Siminalayi Fubara has raised objections, alleging bias towards the Wike faction.
The Wike camp is reportedly pushing for the retention of Damagum as the Chairman well beyond August, with aspirations for him to assume the role of substantive national chairman eventually. However, the realization of this goal hinges largely on the outcomes of the forthcoming ward, local government, and state congresses.
According to insider information, “The leadership change will see a North Central party member taking Damagum’s position of Deputy National Chairman (North) while Damagum becomes Chairman.”
Despite the tension preceding the NEC meeting, Damagum emerged unfazed, dismissing the situation as non-life-threatening, stating, “This was not a matter of life and death.”