The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faces another internal storm as its deputy leaders have issued a stern warning to members attempting to undermine Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umaru Damagum. Speaking in Abuja at the party’s Wadata Plaza headquarters, Timothy Osadolor, Deputy National Youth Leader, urged dissenting members to either align with the party’s goals or leave.
“The case of the acting national chairman is settled till December 2025,” Osadolor declared during a press briefing. “We cannot afford distractions when we should be repositioning the PDP for future victories. If you cannot support the party, honorably resign and stop sabotaging our collective efforts.”
Calls for Unity Amid Challenges
Osadolor, flanked by four other deputies, emphasized the importance of unity within the party. He noted that the continuous infighting, media criticisms, and legal distractions were detrimental to the PDP’s survival. Drawing from a prepared speech titled “Tomorrow Beckons on PDP,” he called for a collective effort to rebuild the party.
“This is no longer the time for blame games,” he said, referencing the disillusionment that has plagued members in recent years. “We must come down from our high horses and work together to return the PDP to power at the center. The hardships Nigerians face today—poverty, insecurity, and poor governance—are stark reminders of what happens when a party like PDP fails to put its house in order.”
Criticism of Self-Serving Members
Osadolor accused some party members of prioritizing personal ambitions over the PDP’s goals. “From the BOT chairman endorsing an opposition governor to candidates negotiating with rival parties for selfish gain, these actions have weakened the party’s structure,” he said. “We must stop exploiting constitutional ambiguities for personal benefit. The party’s future is more important than individual ambitions.”
He also condemned those airing grievances on public platforms. “Do not go from TV house to radio house abusing the party. Use our internal mechanisms to address concerns. It is unethical and counterproductive to create confusion within the PDP under the guise of advocating for due process,” he added.
Litigations and Leadership Stability
Addressing ongoing legal battles, Osadolor reiterated the deputies’ support for the current leadership. He urged members to await the court’s decision regarding Senator Samuel Anyanwu’s role as National Secretary but stressed that, in the meantime, the leadership under Damagum remains intact.
“The National Working Committee is united, and we are committed to collaborating with stakeholders like the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Reconciliation Committee to position the PDP for success in future elections,” he stated.
A Plea for Focus and Reconciliation
The deputies also emphasized the need to resolve internal disputes through dialogue and constitutional amendments. “Political parties are formed to gain power and improve people’s welfare,” Osadolor said. “The last decade of mischief and broken agreements has been detrimental. Now is the time to mend our Constitution’s loopholes and embrace meaningful reforms.”
Referencing Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka’s quote, “The man dies in all who keeps silent in the face of tyranny,” Osadolor urged members to speak up for the party’s collective good. He added, “We must rise to these challenges, prepare for future elections, and rebuild trust among members.”
A Warning Against Complacency
Osadolor warned that further divisions could derail the PDP’s chances of reclaiming power at the federal level. “Tomorrow beckons on us to surmount these challenges,” he said. “We thank our loyal members across Nigeria’s 774 local governments who continue to uphold the PDP’s ideals. Together, we can restore our pride and find our way back to Aso Rock.”
Context and Background
The PDP, Nigeria’s main opposition party, has grappled with internal crises since losing power in 2015. Leadership tussles, defections, and disunity have hampered its efforts to mount a formidable challenge against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The current crisis stems from disagreements over the tenure of Damagum, who assumed the role of acting chairman following the resignation of Iyorchia Ayu. While some members question his leadership, the party’s elected deputies remain adamant that his position is secure until December 2025.
Osadolor’s remarks underscore the party’s struggles to reconcile its factions and refocus on its goal of reclaiming national leadership. With general elections looming, the PDP’s ability to resolve its internal issues could determine its political future.
