The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed dissatisfaction with the Umar Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC) over the repeated postponement of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings.
Speaking at an emergency BoT meeting in Abuja on Thursday, the Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, condemned the delays, stating that the NEC’s indefinite postponement undermines the trust and confidence of party members.
Wabara also disclosed that the BoT plans to continue efforts to resolve the party’s internal crisis, beginning with a meeting in January with former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike.
Since assuming office as acting National Chairman following Senator Iyorchia Ayu’s court-ordered removal, Damagum has faced mounting criticism from party leaders, some of whom are calling for his resignation.
The crisis has deepened due to the repeated postponement of the NEC meetings. Originally scheduled for August 15, the 99th NEC meeting was postponed to October 24, then November 28, and now indefinitely.
The PDP Governors Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, has instructed the NWC to convene the NEC meeting by February 2024.
Wabara, expressing the BoT’s disappointment, said, “Today, we meet under challenging, self-inflicted circumstances, compelled by our collective concern for the state of our party.
As custodians of the PDP’s conscience and legacy, it is our duty to uphold the party’s integrity and ensure it remains a beacon of hope for democracy and governance in Nigeria.”
He added, “The continued shifting of NEC meetings by the NWC is unacceptable and erodes the trust of our members. While challenges in administration are inevitable, adhering to timelines and commitments is critical.
The NEC meeting is an essential platform for decision-making and collaboration at all leadership levels. Further delays will worsen existing challenges and deepen divisions within our ranks.”
The former Senate President reaffirmed the BoT’s commitment to ensuring accountability and adherence to the party’s constitution, urging the NWC to demonstrate leadership by convening the NEC meeting as directed.
Wabara also addressed the economic hardships facing Nigerians under the Tinubu administration.
“The harsh economic policies, skyrocketing living costs, and poorly implemented reforms have plunged millions into deeper poverty. Our party must present credible alternatives and champion the voices of the suffering masses,” he said.
He stressed the need for unity within the PDP, stating, “Personal ambitions must not overshadow our collective vision for Nigeria.
The strength of the PDP lies in its commitment to fairness, equity, and prosperity for all.”
To resolve internal disputes, Wabara announced that the BoT would begin a renewed peace initiative in January, starting with Nyesom Wike, as part of efforts to restore harmony within the party.
