The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed allegations of bias against its Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, in the selection of a substantive National Secretary.
Speaking on behalf of the party leadership, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Yusuf Dingyadi, described the accusations as baseless and an attempt by certain factions to create division within the party.
Dingyadi reaffirmed that Ambassador Damagum remains committed to fostering unity and strengthening the party’s leadership. He argued that it is misleading to accuse Damagum of undermining the National Working Committee (NWC), emphasizing that under his leadership, the PDP has maintained its resilience despite challenges following the 2023 general elections.
Addressing specific claims, Dingyadi stated that Ambassador Damagum was not in Abuja on the day Senator Samuel Anyanwu resumed at the PDP’s national secretariat. Instead, he was in Damaturu attending a family event.
He further alleged that the attacks against Damagum were orchestrated by interest groups, particularly from the northern region, seeking to impose a leadership that would serve their agenda by suppressing internal opposition. Despite these pressures, Dingyadi maintained that Damagum has upheld internal democracy and promoted political stability within the party.
Responding to allegations of ties with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Dingyadi dismissed them as unfounded, asserting that Damagum remains unwavering in his loyalty to the PDP.
Since assuming office as Acting National Chairman, Damagum has engaged with party members nationwide, facilitated key meetings, and prioritized reconciliation over punitive actions. His leadership, Dingyadi noted, has ensured that disciplinary issues are addressed through structured reconciliation mechanisms rather than politically motivated suspensions or expulsions.
Dingyadi emphasized that Damagum is a duly recognized member of the National Working Committee, backed by the party’s constitution. He warned that attempts to undermine his leadership would ultimately weaken the PDP, urging members to focus on unity and the party’s long-term stability.
He concluded by calling on party stakeholders to rally behind Damagum in the collective effort to strengthen the PDP as a formidable political force.
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