By Osaigbovo Okungbowa, Senior Political Correspondent
ABUJA, Nigeria – The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is currently embroiled in a tumultuous power struggle, exacerbated by the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. The recent demand by sixty members of the Nigerian House of Representatives for the resignation of the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, underscores the deep-seated rifts within the party. This report delves into the intricate web of alliances, accusations, and manoeuvres that have intensified the power struggle within the PDP, as well as its implications for the party’s future.
The Rivers State Political Crisis
At the heart of the current imbroglio lies the protracted feud between Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The rift between the two political heavyweights has been linked to a series of confrontations and bitter power struggle between loyalists on both sides. Last October, 27 lawmakers aligned with Wike attempted to impeach Fubara, triggering a fierce resistance from the governor and his supporters. Despite a temporary lull in hostilities following an intervention by President Bola Tinubu, tensions have resurfaced, signalling a breakdown of the truce brokered earlier.
Calls for Damagum’s Resignation
The demand for Damagum’s resignation by sixty PDP lawmakers stems from his perceived silence amid the escalating crisis in Rivers State. Accusations abound that Damagum has been tacitly supporting Wike’s faction and colluding with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The lawmakers allege that Damagum’s inaction has emboldened the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers who are threatening to revive the impeachment proceedings against Fubara. Furthermore, Damagum is accused of orchestrating a plot to extend the tenure of Rivers State Local Government Chairmen, who are believed to be sympathetic to Wike, through a “dubious” court order.
Allegations Against Damagum
The aggrieved lawmakers have levelled a barrage of accusations against Damagum, ranging from anti-party activities to collusion with the APC. They accuse him of manipulating caretaker committee lists in Rivers State and other states to favour APC interests, thereby undermining the integrity of the PDP. Moreover, they contend that Damagum’s failure to retain PDP strongholds in the South-East and his purported alliance with APC agents have weakened the party’s standing nationwide.
Divisions Among PDP Governors
The controversy surrounding Damagum’s tenure has laid bare the divisions within the ranks of PDP governors. While some advocate for his confirmation to complete the suspended National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu’s term, others push for the North Central region to nominate a replacement in accordance with the party’s constitution. These divisions reflect the underlying power struggle within the party, with different factions vying for control and influence over its direction.
Involvement of Key Figures
The involvement of key figures such as Nyesom Wike and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has further complicated the political landscape. Wike’s feud with Fubara and his fallout with Atiku following the latter’s presidential bid have deepened the schisms within the party. As the PDP braces for its 98th National Executive Committee meeting, the competing interests of Wike, Atiku, and other stakeholders will likely shape the outcome of the deliberations.
Suswam’s Bid for Chairmanship
Meanwhile, former Benue State governor Gabriel Suswam has emerged as a contender for the PDP Chairmanship, amidst uncertainty surrounding Bukola Saraki’s prospects due to shared origins with the current National Legal Adviser from Kwara State. Suswam’s active pursuit of the position underscores the fluidity of the party’s leadership dynamics and the strategic calculations at play.
Conclusion
The unfolding power struggle within the PDP underscores the volatility of Nigeria’s political landscape and the high stakes involved. As rival factions vie for control and influence, the party’s unity and coherence hang in the balance. The outcome of the upcoming NEC meeting will be pivotal in determining the party’s trajectory and its ability to navigate the myriad challenges confronting it. In the face of mounting pressure and internal discord, the PDP finds itself at a crossroads, with its future course dependent on the resolution of the current impasse and the emergence of a cohesive leadership capable of steering the party forward.
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