A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Working Committee has suspended the party’s National Chairman, Umar Damagum, and National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, citing alleged disloyalty to the party. This development adds to the growing rift within the party, leaving its leadership structure in uncertainty.
The suspension follows a series of complaints against Damagum and Anyanwu, particularly regarding a letter they addressed to the Court of Appeal in a case involving 27 former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The NWC condemned this action as “anti-party” and in gross violation of the PDP Constitution and their Oath of Office.
In a statement, the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, announced the suspension, stating that Damagum and Anyanwu have been referred to the National Disciplinary Committee for further action . The two officials are suspended from all party meetings, activities, and programs pending the investigation.
This leadership crisis comes after a faction loyal to Damagum suspended the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, and Ologunagba on similar grounds of disloyalty. The party’s National Director of Publicity, Chinwe Nnorom, had earlier announced the suspension of Ajibade and Ologunagba, directing them to step aside pending an investigation.
The PDP’s internal conflicts have been escalating, with various factions vying for control. This latest development may further exacerbate the party’s challenges in presenting a united front ahead of future elections.
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