The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has initiated efforts to address the ongoing crisis within its Benue State chapter by establishing a caretaker committee. The acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, inaugurated the committee at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, charging its members with the responsibility of prioritizing the party’s interests over personal agendas.
The Benue State chapter has been embroiled in internal conflicts, with various factions suspending key figures such as former Governor Samuel Ortom and his predecessor, Gabriel Suswan. Damagum emphasized that the committee’s primary task is to reconcile these divisions and restore unity within the party.
“Your duty is to create an all-inclusive executive during the ongoing congresses, ensuring everyone has a place,” Damagum stated. He stressed the importance of setting aside personal differences and focusing on the party’s future success in the state.
The caretaker committee, led by retired Air Vice Marshal Napoleon Bali, has been given 90 days to carry out its mandate. Bali assured the PDP leadership that the committee would work diligently to bring all party members together, with the goal of reclaiming control of Benue State politics by 2027.
Bali, drawing on his experience in conflict management, expressed confidence in his ability to unite the party’s key figures, including Ortom and Suswan. He highlighted the importance of compromise and dialogue in resolving conflicts, assuring that the committee would address the issues and work towards a united PDP in Benue State.
