The crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has resulted in the emergence of two national chairmen due to a split in the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). This division stems from ongoing struggles for control within the party, particularly concerning the situation in Rivers State, intensified by the recent local government elections sanctioned by the national leadership.
One faction is led by acting national chairman Ambassador Illiya Damagum, while the other is headed by the party’s national treasurer, Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed. Tensions escalated with mutual suspensions among national executives, including Damagum’s camp suspending national publicity secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba and national legal adviser Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade for alleged anti-party activities. In response, the Mohammed faction suspended Damagum and national secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu.
Concerned about the escalating conflict, the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) has urged the factions to restore peace. However, PDP governors claim there is no faction and plan to hold a general meeting to address the issues at hand.
In a recent ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja prohibited the National Executive Committee (NEC) and BoT from removing Damagum as acting chairman until the national convention in December next year. Justice Peter Lifu mandated that only Damagum be recognized in this role until then.
This court decision came just before the upcoming NEC meeting on October 24, which will address the ongoing crisis, particularly regarding the Rivers State chapter.
The rift within the PDP was further complicated by conflicts between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Rivers State Governor Fubara, particularly concerning the local government elections. While Damagum received support from Governor Seyi Makinde, Governor Mohammed insisted that Damagum should step down for a representative from the North Central zone, in line with party designations.
The situation worsened with accusations of anti-party activities leading to suspensions, as Damagum’s faction claimed Ologunagba and Ajibade acted against the NWC’s directives regarding the Rivers elections. The disputes continue to highlight divisions within the party as it navigates a complex internal struggle.