The ongoing crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has resulted in the emergence of two national chairmen, reflecting a deep split within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). This division primarily arises from disputes over control in Rivers State, exacerbated by recent local government elections endorsed by the party’s leadership.
One faction is led by acting national chairman Ambassador Illiya Damagum, while the other is spearheaded by Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed, the party’s national treasurer. Tensions flared as both sides exchanged suspensions, with Damagum’s faction suspending national publicity secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba and national legal adviser Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade for alleged violations. The Mohammed-led faction countered by suspending Damagum and Senator Samuel Anyanwu.
In response to the escalating conflict, the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) has called for calm and the restoration of the status quo. However, PDP governors assert that there is no faction within the party and plan a general meeting to address existing issues.
Recently, the Federal High Court in Abuja issued a ruling preventing the NEC and BoT from removing Damagum as acting chairman until the party’s national convention scheduled for December next year. Justice Peter Lifu stated that only Damagum should be recognized in this role until the convention.
This ruling arrives ahead of the NEC meeting set for October 24, where party leaders will discuss the ongoing crisis, particularly concerning the Rivers State chapter.
The internal conflict has also involved disagreements between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Rivers State Governor Fubara, notably over the conduct of the local elections. While Damagum received backing from Governor Seyi Makinde, Governor Mohammed maintained that Damagum should resign to allow representation from the North Central zone.
The situation further escalated with accusations of anti-party activities, prompting suspensions as Damagum’s faction alleged that Ologunagba and Ajibade acted contrary to the NWC’s collective decisions on the Rivers elections. The crisis underscores the divisions within the PDP as it grapples with its internal challenges.