The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senate caucus has rebuffed recent calls for the resignation of the party’s National Chairman, Umar Illiya Damagum, labelling them as untimely and unwarranted.
The demand for Damagum’s resignation emerged from some opposition lawmakers in the House of Representatives, led by Hon. Ugochinyere Ikenga, who accused him of favouring the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and failing to convene the statutory quarterly National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings.
However, Senator Abba Moro, representing Benue South and leader of the PDP Senate caucus, dismissed these calls as the personal opinion of Ugochinyere Ikenga, asserting that they do not reflect the stance of PDP federal lawmakers, particularly PDP senators.
Moro emphasised that the timing of the demand, just days before the impending NEC meeting, is unnecessarily disruptive. He underscored the significance of the upcoming NEC meeting as an opportunity for members to express their views on the party’s activities.
Regarding the national chairmanship seat, Senator Moro clarified that there is no valid reason to propose opening up the seat for contention or zoning it to any region other than the North Central.
He pointed out that the PDP’s constitution stipulates provisions for deputy chairmen, and any vacancy would be filled by the deputy chairman from the respective zone.
Senator Moro emphasised the need for caution among NEC members to ensure the party’s continued strength and unity, urging against rash decisions that could undermine its standing.
In conclusion, the PDP Senate caucus reiterated its commitment to upholding the party’s principles and unity, urging members to approach the upcoming NEC meeting with discretion and foresight.