By Khadijah Shehu Abdulkareem
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing a deepening internal crisis as two factions of the party have scheduled separate meetings at the national secretariat today over the contentious national secretary office.
One faction, led by Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, has invited stakeholders to a meeting, recognizing Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the national secretary. Anyanwu has issued a notice for an expanded National Caucus Meeting, slated for 2 pm.
In contrast, a rival faction, backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and led by Deputy National Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja, insists that the scheduled National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting will hold as planned at 9 am. Arapaja argues that only the NEC can vary its decision, and Damagum’s unilateral decision to shift the meeting is invalid.
The dispute has exposed deep divisions within the party, with prominent leaders taking sides. Damagum’s faction is reportedly backed by PDP Governors’ Forum Chair Bala Mohammed, Senator Bukola Saraki, and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, among others.
On the other hand, Arapaja’s group is supported by Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, BoT chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, and BoT member Chief Olabode George, among others. Mbah warned that Anyanwu’s return could push the Southeast Caucus out of the party.
The PDP constitution stipulates that the NEC is the highest decision-making body after the National Convention, with powers to dissolve the National Working Committee (NWC). The outcome of today’s meetings remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the PDP’s internal crisis is far from over.