Governors of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) recently convened at the Bauchi Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, to deliberate on the acting presidency of Umar Damagum. The meeting served as a platform for party leaders to address the need for unity and reconciliation within the political organization.
Debo Ologunagba, the National Communications Secretary of the PDP, emphasized the significance of fostering a sense of solidarity within the party. He confirmed that Umar Damagum would continue as acting president until the next meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party. Ologunagba stressed the importance of continued consultations before arriving at a decision concerning the party’s leadership.
Prior to this gathering, the National Working Committee of the party had expressed full support for Umar Damagum. However, the North Central region insisted that one of its members should assume the acting presidency in accordance with the PDP constitution.
At a meeting held at the Grand Ibro Hotel in Abuja, the North Central delegation urged Umar Damagum to revert to his previous position as the Vice President North, a position he held before assuming the acting presidency. They cited Article 47(6) of the PDP constitution, which stipulates that when a position becomes vacant, the relevant executive committee should appoint an individual from the same region to complete the term.
The PDP governors underscored that a final decision on Umar Damagum’s fate would be reached during the next NEC meeting. The attendance of influential figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, at this governors’ meeting underscores the significance of the discussion.
In essence, the issue of leadership within the PDP continues to spark debates and differing opinions within the party. The ultimate decision regarding Umar Damagum will be made at the upcoming NEC meeting, where members must collaborate to ensure stability and unity within the political party.