The crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has deepened, with a faction of the National Working Committee (NWC) announcing the suspension of the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, and National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, over alleged disloyalty to the party.
This action comes after another faction of the NWC, aligned with Damagum, earlier suspended the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, and the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, on similar allegations of disloyalty.
In a statement released on Friday, Ologunagba announced the suspension of Damagum and Anyanwu, further escalating the internal conflict. The statement noted that the NWC had reviewed complaints against the two officials, particularly in connection to their role in a legal matter concerning 27 former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. These members had vacated their seats after defecting from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The NWC condemned what it termed as "anti-party activities" by Damagum and Anyanwu, citing violations of the PDP Constitution and their oath of office. The officials' actions were deemed detrimental to the party's interests, especially regarding the appeal they addressed to the Court of Appeal in the case involving the former Rivers State lawmakers.
According to the NWC, the suspension of Damagum and Anyanwu is in line with Sections 57, 58, and 59 of the PDP Constitution. The two officials have been referred to the National Disciplinary Committee for further investigation and action. Pending the conclusion of this process, both officials are barred from participating in any NWC meetings, activities, or programs.
This latest development underscores the growing divisions within the PDP's leadership, as factions continue to clash over key decisions affecting the party's future. Further updates are expected as the situation unfolds.
