- Safiu Kehinde
The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has called for an end to the party’s internal crisis and division amongst members of the party.
Damagum made the call while speaking at the party’s 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, held on Monday at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja.
NPO Reported a mild drama yesterday following the shutdown of the secretariat with heavy security presence which denied the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) access to the secretariat.
The Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC) would however gain access to the secretariat after the drama yesterday.
As against his initial declaration of the postponement of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, Damagum, in his opening remark, held that the meeting held yesterday is the 100th NEC meeting of the party.
He explained that the decision to hold the NEC was borne out of consultations with leaders of the party.
“After extensive consultations with our leaders, governors, and leaders of various party organs, we have decided to proceed with this NEC meeting.
“This is our NEC, and it will focus on one key agenda item to ensure we remain compliant with regulatory requirements and avoid any complications,” he said.
The Acting PDP National Chairman however charged the party members over the need for discipline, unity, and loyalty to the PDP, as he called for an end to the growing internal discord and external pressures.
He warned members against engaging in public conduct that could damage the PDP’s image, warning of possible sabotage by external actors.
“I want to reiterate my welcome to all of you and urge party faithful to refrain from arbitrarily demarketing our party. The strength of our party lies in our ability to resolve our issues in our own unique way,
“If you truly love this party, now is the time to channel your energy into promoting its strengths and values, rather than undermining it. Unless, of course, you are among those who have been contracted to destroy our party. Let me be clear: enough is enough,” he said.
While admitting to the internal division triggered by a contentious issue, which he described as having led to a ‘painful decision, Damagum disclosed that the issue had been thoroughly deliberated and would be addressed publicly at the right time.
“The issue that recently caused tension and division within our ranks has been thoroughly discussed, and a decision has been reached.
“Unfortunately, it was a painful one, and I will not delve into the details now. We will address this further at the appropriate time.” he said.
The meeting had in attendance key stakeholders, including governors, National Working Committee (NWC) members, and representatives of various party organs.
Present at the meeting were Adolphus Wabara, chairman of the board of trustees (BoT); Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governor’s Forum, Bala Mohammed; Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, and Douye Diri of Bayelsa.
Others are former Senate President Bukola Saraki; Abba Moro, senate minority leader; Seriake Dickson, senator representing Bayelsa west, national working committee members; BoT members; and PDP state chairmen.