The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has endorsed the Amb. Umar Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC) at its 98th meeting, defying internal disputes over leadership positions. The endorsement came amidst efforts by the camp of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to reinstate Damagum as Deputy National Chairman (North), with the aim of allowing the North-Central region to produce a substantive national chairman.
Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Bala Mohammed, expressed satisfaction with the peaceful atmosphere of the meeting, contrary to speculations of internal strife. He emphasized the party’s unity and commitment to constitutional principles.
Regarding the issue of electing a new chairman from the North-Central, Mohammed indicated that discussions would intensify over the next two months, with leadership transitions scheduled for September. Damagum echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that his position was not a matter of life and death.
In a communique issued after the meeting, the PDP NEC condemned the perceived failures of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, particularly in addressing insecurity and economic challenges. The NEC demanded urgent action from President Bola Tinubu to address national security concerns and revitalize the economy.
Additionally, the NEC approved the party’s congress timetable and the reconstitution of disciplinary and reconciliation committees to ensure party stability. The extension of the Party Constitution Amendment Committee’s tenure was also sanctioned to incorporate new proposals.
Meanwhile, internal tensions within the PDP surfaced at the North-Central Zone leadership meeting, where Senator Dino Melaye confronted former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom over the latter’s support for President Tinubu of the APC in the 2027 elections. Melaye accused Ortom of anti-party activities and demanded disciplinary action, leading to a heated exchange between the two.