The political landscape within the PDP has become increasingly contentious regarding the national chairmanship. Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has made his position clear through a press release issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, which also addressed claims by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde about the ongoing crisis.
“I stand by the Constitution of our great party, which outlines the succession procedure in the event of an elected chairman’s exit,” Adeleke stated. “I also support the resolution of the PDP Governors’ Forum, of which I am a member. Our party must adhere to its Constitution during this critical time and always. That is the way to build a responsible political party.”
Governor Makinde had previously declared his full support for Acting Chairman Umar Ilya Damagum and his leadership team.
He stated, “Tongues have been wagging about my absence at the campaign grand finale. Let me clarify that Seyi Makinde is 100 percent with our candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo. If Edo people want to know the difference between delicious and nutritious, they should vote for Asue Ighodalo.”
Makinde expressed his confidence in Damagum’s leadership, saying, “I am glad that our acting national chairman and members of his National Working Committee (NWC) are here. I read that there is another meeting in Bauchi involving some NWC members. I want to be clear: I have discussed with my brother on our way here, and we are 100 percent in support of the Iliya Damagum-led NWC. Whatever decision you make, we will support you in repositioning our party.”
Meanwhile, tensions have escalated within the party regarding its national leadership. Several members, including governors, are calling for Damagum’s removal as acting chairman. Many advocate that the North Central region should be allowed to complete the term of former PDP chairman Iyorchia Ayu, who is from Benue State. Ayu was removed in June 2023, and Damagum subsequently assumed the role of acting chairman. Governor Mohammed emphasized that Damagum’s continuation is a “constitutional issue” that needs to be addressed.
