The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over its national chairmanship persists, with former party spokesperson Kola Ologbondiyan warning that any resolution outside the North-Central zone would be ineffective and detrimental to the party’s future.
The controversy began following the removal of Senator Iyorchia Ayu as National Chairman in March 2023. Since then, Ambassador Umar Damagum, the Deputy National Chairman (North), has been serving in an acting capacity. However, Damagum’s prolonged tenure as acting chairman has sparked significant disputes, with court cases filed to prevent efforts to remove him.
North-Central Leadership: A Critical Demand
Speaking during an engagement with North-Central youths in Abuja, Ologbondiyan asserted that respecting the PDP’s zoning arrangement, as enshrined in Section 47(6) of the party’s Constitution (2017 Amendment), is crucial for resolving the leadership crisis.
“Anything outside of this demand will end up an exercise in futility,” he said, emphasizing that the North-Central region’s claim to the chairmanship remains the only viable pathway to restoring order within the PDP.
Respect for Party Constitution
Ologbondiyan stressed the importance of adhering to the party’s constitution and respecting the decisions of the National Executive Committee (NEC). He criticized the repeated postponements of NEC meetings, which, according to him, undermine the party’s constitutional order.
“The NEC, at its 98th meeting, resolved to address the demand of the North-Central during its 99th meeting scheduled for August. Unfortunately, this meeting has been postponed multiple times to the detriment of the party and Nigerians,” he lamented. He further called on party leaders to ensure that the upcoming NEC meeting on November 28 holds as planned.
A Call for Damagum’s Reversion
Ologbondiyan urged Ambassador Damagum to revert to his elected role as Deputy National Chairman (North) to restore constitutional order and prevent further harm to the party. He accused Damagum and his backers of “hurting Nigerians” by prolonging the crisis and called for immediate action to resolve the dispute.
“It is trite wisdom that as long as Damagum is being encouraged to continue to sit on the position of North-Central, the concept of fixing the PDP will be mere lip service that can cause the party more harm,” he stated.
Broader Implications for PDP and Nigeria
Highlighting the importance of resolving the leadership impasse, Ologbondiyan argued that a stable PDP is essential for addressing national challenges. He criticized those attempting to centralize control of the party, emphasizing that the PDP was established as the “Peoples Democratic Party,” owned by Nigerians and not by any individual or faction.
“The leaders must look at the bigger picture and address the truth wherever it is required. Those attempting to kill or render the PDP comatose must understand that the party is not a one-man organization,” he said.
Conclusion
As the PDP’s leadership crisis continues, Ologbondiyan’s remarks underscore the urgent need for constitutional adherence, respect for zoning arrangements, and transparent leadership. Whether the November 28 NEC meeting will provide a resolution remains to be seen, but the party’s unity and ability to function effectively in Nigeria’s political landscape hang in the balance.
