PDP support groups endorse Wike as party’s national leader

A coalition of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) affiliated support groups on Friday publicly endorsed the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, expressing their confidence in the leadership of acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum.

The groups including the Coalition of PDP groups, Coalition of Northern youth groups, Nigeria Democratic Defense Project, Nigeria Citizens Watch for Good Governance, and Coalition of FCT Abuja groups, declared their loyalty to Wike’s leadership.

They also validated the decision to have Damagum at the helm of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) until September 2024.

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The spokesperson for the support groups, Onwe Ogezi, said, “We are gathered here in a historic affirmation of our steadfast belief in the leadership of the incomparable Nyesom Wike.

“His strategic foresight and dedication to the core values of our party resonate with us profoundly, fostering a unity that is both rare and vital in today’s political climate.”

He stated further, “The unwavering faith of our party members in Nyesom Wike’s vision is a testament to his unassailable dedication to the PDP. Since 1999, Wike has remained a loyal party man, never wavering in his commitment, unlike others who have intermittently departed our ranks.”

The support groups also took the opportunity to call for the political retirement of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, citing his frequent party-switching and absenteeism from the country’s political landscape, particularly in contrast to Wike’s steadfast participation.

“This rally is more than just a show of numbers; it is the dawn of a reinvigorated PDP, ready to embrace a future of governance anchored on accountability, inclusion, and political integrity,” said Ogezi.

The spokesperson underscored the party’s faith in Damagum, saying, “The National Working Committee’s endorsement of Umar Damagum to continue in an acting capacity is a clear endorsement of his able leadership and the deep trust placed in him by our party. With him at the forefront, we are confident that the PDP will not only grow but also stand as the bulwark of democracy in Nigeria.”