Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar supports the removal of acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum.
According to reports, Atiku reached out to members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) advocating for Damagum’s removal.
This move has divided the 13 state governors elected on the PDP platform. Seven governors, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, are pushing for Damagum’s removal.
Before last year’s general elections, Atiku and Wike broke out, with Wike spearheading five PDP governors in opposition to Atiku’s presidential ambition.
A senior member of the PDP NWC, who sought anonymity owing to a lack of permission to speak publicly, acknowledged that the former Vice President had contacted some of the anti-Damagum forces and other party stakeholders.
The source stated, “We are not alone; important leaders in the party, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have spoken with some of us.”
Since taking over as acting National Chairman of the PDP following the dismissal of Iyorchia Ayu, stakeholders have criticised Damagum for failing to enact necessary reforms to revitalise the party.
Tensions rose when Damagum’s NWC shifted authority of the Rivers State PDP structure to Wike rather than Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
This action enraged the PDP Governors’ Forum, which maintained that a state governor has the authority to serve as the state’s party head.
When asked what Atiku told the anti-Damagum NWC members, the insider responded, “I can confirm that Atiku has spoken with some of us. He assured us that we are not alone and that he supports our pursuit of justice, fairness, and equity.
“He encouraged us to stay motivated and continue advocating for the PDP Constitution to be followed in the NWC’s daily decisions. He understands our reasons for wanting Damagum removed and did not disagree.
“We have no personal issues with Damagum; our goal is to protect the party so that Nigerians have an alternative in future elections. Damagum should honour the party’s constitution and traditions, step back to his original role as Deputy National Chairman (North), and allow the North Central to nominate a replacement promptly.”
Another source close to Atiku indicated that the former Vice President wants Damagum replaced in accordance with the PDP’s Constitution.
“Atiku is collaborating with NWC members and other dedicated party leaders to ensure that the right actions are taken to uphold the party’s constitution,” the source stated.
Speaking on whether Atiku wants Damagum removed, the source explained, “It’s not about Damagum; the former Vice President is focused on democracy and the PDP. Atiku prefers to work discreetly to repair what has been damaged.”
All attempts to contact Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, for a reaction were futile because he did not answer phones or respond to mail.
However, Timothy Osadolor, a PDP NEC member and Deputy National Youth Leader, has urged party leaders to put aside their disagreements, avoid verbal clashes, and refer any issues to the relevant committees.
In an exclusive interview with The Punch, Osadolor expressed trust in the reconciliation and disciplinary committees, encouraging all stakeholders to allow them to work tirelessly without interruption.
Osadolor said, “The NEC approved the establishment of reconciliation and disciplinary committees. These committees have been inaugurated and are currently working.
“I know that all is not well with the party, but I have faith in Ikimi’s committee and the reconciliation committee. Members with genuine issues should reach out to these committees and avoid actions that may distract them. We must refrain from public verbal attacks and allow the committees to do their work.”
