A demand for the resignation of Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, has been made by Hon. Farah Dagogo, a former member of the National Assembly from Rivers State.
In a statement released in Port Harcourt on Friday and communicated to the press, Dagogo emphasized the importance of Damagum stepping down to pave the way for a more effective and results-driven leadership from August 2024.
These remarks came following Thursday’s National Executive Committee meeting of the PDP in Abuja.
Issued by his media aide, Ibrahim Lawal, the statement also hailed the outcome of the party’s 98th NEC meeting as a display of the party’s resilience in dealing with challenges.
It was noted that prior to the NEC meeting, there were discussions and speculations about potential crises as the PDP navigates towards appointing a new national chairman from the ‘North Central Zone’ to complete the term left vacant by the former chairman, Dr. Iyiorchia Ayu.
Regarding Damagum’s continuance as the acting national chairman until the upcoming NEC meeting in August, Dagogo expressed that those genuinely concerned about the party’s well-being had made sacrifices to ensure its stability.
The former legislator commended the political maturity and wisdom shown by the party’s leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, during the NEC meeting, avoiding scenarios where individuals sought to exploit the party for personal gain.
He stated, “The outcome of the NEC Meeting was favorable. Despite challenges, the party emerged unharmed and will progress further.
“While the Acting Chairman remains in position, it is evident that for the party’s benefit, he should step aside for a more effective leadership by August.
“The tensions leading up to the NEC meeting were driven by a minority’s selfish agenda to resist calls for leadership overhaul.
“Fortunately, the party did not fall into this trap, thanks to the leadership’s maturity, particularly the guidance of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and others. Their dedication has brought us this far.”