Ahead of the 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leaders of the North Central Zone have begun the process of finding a replacement for Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum.
The North Central caucus stressed the importance of the NEC meeting to be held on 24 October, saying it was essential for the future stability of the party.
The PDP has been plagued by internal conflicts before and after the 2023 general election. Damagum has been criticized by party members for failing to implement meaningful reforms and is blamed for the party’s ongoing challenges.
The conflict intensified when the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, openly criticized Rivers State Governor Siminalai Hubala and the PDP Governors Forum over structural issues in the party. This public infighting damaged the party’s reputation and weakened its political influence.
In response, the North Central stakeholders cited Article 47(6) of the PDP Constitution which provides that vacancies must be filled by individuals from the same zone to complete the original term of office. We are seeking a successor to Mr.
An NEC executive from the North Central District, who requested anonymity, told Punch that efforts are underway to select a replacement with the goal of finalizing the position by the October 24th meeting.
The source disclosed that the North Central caucus recently convened in Abuja and decided that presenting a unified candidate at the NEC meeting is essential for the future of the party. The candidate will be chosen from a pool of candidates, including former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam and party leader Conrad Yutan.
He said: “Yes, we met at Stratton Hotel, Abuja. We heard presentations from several aspirants and further meetings will be held to decide on the final selection. Same Zone Plateau State Governor Caleb Muthofan, the party leader of the ) promised to convene a meeting.
He added that the purpose of these meetings is to ensure that the NEC meetings proceed as scheduled, given that party leaders insist on adhering to the set dates.
In support of these statements, the immediate past National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Kola Olorogubondiyan, warned against further delays of the NEC meeting and stressed the importance of the meeting in determining the next chairman of the party. .
He said: “The North Central caucus has met previously and will meet again to ensure that the NEC’s announced dates must be adhered to.” This meeting is important in determining Damagum’s successor. Stakeholders are rallying for this date and are aware of efforts to postpone the meeting. We strongly recommend that you avoid such delays. ”
Conrad Utahn, who is applying for the post of national chairman, said he had a two-hour interview with the North Central caucus.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja, Utahn expressed optimism that ongoing talks would result in a potential agreement being presented at the NEC meeting.
He explained: “Recently, I had a two-hour discussion with the North Central Executive Committee and my message was well received. We have a candidate from Kogi and another from Benue. Ultimately, the leaders of the zone I expect the North Central zone to present only one candidate at the NEC meeting on October 24th. This will not be a national convention. One name will become the new substantive chairman of the PDP.”
