The internal struggle within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) continues to intensify as a faction of the party announces the appointment of Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as its new acting National Chairman.
This development marks another chapter in the ongoing crisis that has gripped the party in recent months.
The announcement came on Friday, as the integrity faction of the PDP took decisive action following the suspension of key party members. In the early hours of the day, the National Working Committee (NWC), led by the acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, suspended National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade SAN and National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba for alleged anti-party activities.
However, shortly after this suspension, another faction of the NWC responded. They issued a statement through Ologunagba, announcing the suspension of Damagum and National Secretary Sam Anyanwu for similar allegations.
In a statement released to the media, Ologunagba said, “Following the suspension of His Excellency, Ambassador Illiya Damagum as the Acting National Chairman of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the National Working Committee (NWC) has approved the appointment of Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as the Acting National Chairman.”
The statement emphasized that Mohammed’s appointment is in accordance with the PDP’s amended constitution from 2017.
“The appointment which takes immediate effect is pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017),” the statement added.
Ologunagba also called on all party organs, leaders, stakeholders, and members to remain focused during this critical time. He noted that the NWC has commenced arrangements for the upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for October 24, 2024.
The latest round of suspensions highlights the ongoing divisions within the PDP, a party that has faced significant challenges since losing power in 2015. The party’s internal conflicts have raised concerns about its ability to present a united front, especially with the general elections approaching.
Political analysts have pointed out that the current crisis could hinder the PDP’s chances of reclaiming its status as a dominant force in Nigerian politics. “The PDP needs to resolve its internal issues quickly to avoid losing credibility with the electorate,” said political analyst Dr. Grace Ikedi.
The PDP has a storied history in Nigeria, having ruled the country for 16 years before being ousted in 2015. Since then, the party has struggled to regain its footing. The internal squabbles, leadership changes, and factional fights have made it difficult for the party to project a cohesive image.