Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is backing efforts to remove Umar Damagum as the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Sources indicate that Atiku has reached out to members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) advocating for Damagum’s ouster.
The push to unseat Damagum has caused a rift among the 13 PDP state governors. Seven governors, led by Bauchi’s Bala Mohammed, are in favor of Damagum’s removal, while four, including Oyo’s Seyi Makinde, support his retention. The pro-Damagum faction includes allies of Minister Nyesom Wike, who has had conflicts with the PDP Governors’ Forum.
Atiku and Wike’s relationship soured prior to the last general elections, with Wike leading a group of governors opposing Atiku’s presidential campaign. A senior PDP NWC member, speaking anonymously, confirmed Atiku’s engagement with anti-Damagum forces, emphasizing that he supports their pursuit of justice and adherence to party rules.
Damagum has faced criticism for not implementing necessary reforms since taking over after Iyorchia Ayu’s removal. Tensions heightened when control of the Rivers State PDP structure was handed to Wike instead of the state’s current governor, Siminalayi Fubara, prompting backlash from the PDP Governors’ Forum.
Atiku reportedly told the anti-Damagum members that their concerns were valid and encouraged them to continue advocating for the party’s constitutional principles. The focus, according to sources, is on ensuring the party has a strong foundation for future elections.
Timothy Osadolor, a Deputy National Youth Leader, called for unity among party leaders and urged them to allow established reconciliation and disciplinary committees to function without disruption. The PDP NWC had set up these committees to address internal conflicts and recommend sanctions for members who violate party rules.
Despite efforts to contact Atiku’s media adviser for comment, no response was received. Osadolor expressed optimism about the ongoing work of the committees and stressed the importance of constructive dialogue within the party.
