PDP Leadership Crisis: Atiku Backs Moves to Remove Damagum as National Chairman, Details Emerge
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is reportedly supporting efforts to unseat the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum.
According to a report by Punch Atiku has reached out to key members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) to advocate for Damagum’s removal.
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The bid to remove Damagum has caused a split among the 13 PDP governors. Seven governors, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, are in favor of Damagum’s removal, while four others, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, are standing by the embattled chairman.
Those backing Damagum are largely aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who has been at odds with the PDP Governors’ Forum.
A senior PDP NWC member, who requested anonymity, revealed that Atiku has reached out to some of the factions opposing Damagum’s leadership. “We have the support of prominent party figures, including Atiku Abubakar,” the source told *Punch*.
Asked about Atiku’s communication with anti-Damagum NWC members, the insider confirmed, “Atiku has expressed his support for our cause. He believes in upholding the party’s constitution and encourages us to push for justice and fairness within the NWC. He understands our concerns about Damagum’s leadership and has not opposed our position.”
The source added, “We bear no personal grudge against Damagum. Our aim is to safeguard the future of the party, offering Nigerians a credible alternative in upcoming elections. Damagum should return to his previous role as Deputy National Chairman (North), allowing the North Central zone to nominate a new chairman.”
Another source close to Atiku confirmed that the former Vice President is working to ensure the PDP’s constitution is respected in addressing the leadership crisis.
“Atiku is working alongside NWC members and other senior party leaders to ensure that the constitution is upheld,” the source said.
On whether Atiku is directly advocating for Damagum’s removal, the source clarified, “This isn’t about Damagum personally. Atiku’s priority is strengthening democracy within the PDP. He’s working quietly behind the scenes to fix the internal challenges.”
