Damagum Defends PDP Leadership, Denies Allegiance to APC Amid Mounting Internal Tensions

The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, has categorically denied allegations of incompetence and betrayal of the party’s values by colluding with the All Progressives Congress (APC). Addressing the claims in an interview with BBC Hausa, Damagum took a firm stand against what he described as unfounded and slanderous accusations.

“May God be judge between me and whoever slandered me, and may God judge us if I am working for the APC,” he said. The remarks came in response to speculation that he had met President Bola Tinubu in England—an allegation he dismissed as politically motivated. Damagum reiterated his commitment to the PDP, asserting that he had never wavered in his allegiance since joining the party in 1999. “Those who dislike me will have to find ways to either praise or criticise me to get what they want,” he added, alluding to internal power struggles.

His statements aim to reassure party members and the wider public that despite the ongoing political realignments, he remains a steadfast PDP loyalist, unshaken by partisan smear campaigns.

Stands by Relationship with Wike, Denies Political Compromise

Responding to criticism about his relationship with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike—a former PDP governor now serving in the APC-led federal cabinet—Damagum acknowledged knowing Wike but insisted that their connection does not equate to disloyalty or misconduct.

“For all those who accuse me of having links with the Minister of FCT, I know him or have had links with him, and many of them have had links with him. My only fault here is that I did not allow them to do what they wanted with him,” Damagum explained. His remarks suggest internal conflicts over how party leadership should have handled Wike, particularly following the 2023 general elections.

Damagum’s candid defense indicates that he is unwilling to be swayed by pressure from party factions seeking retribution against Wike. Instead, he seems to advocate for a more strategic and pragmatic approach to managing relationships with influential figures who may no longer align strictly along party lines.

Expresses Disappointment Over Party Defections but Denies Mistreatment

The PDP chairman also addressed the recent wave of defections by some party members to the APC, acknowledging the emotional toll it takes on the party but insisting that those who left were not pushed out or wronged.

“We must be sad. Whenever you lose someone, you don’t feel happy, even if it’s just one person you’re grieving for,” Damagum stated. He expressed concern about the departure of members but dismissed any suggestion that these individuals were driven away by poor leadership or internal marginalization.

Damagum maintained that defections are often a result of individual ambitions and personal decisions rather than systemic failures within the PDP. His remarks are likely intended to maintain party morale while signaling that the PDP remains strong despite high-profile exits.

Addresses Internal Divisions, Emphasizes Unity Amid Differences

In a moment of reflection on the party’s internal challenges, Damagum admitted that disagreements are inevitable in a political organization as large and diverse as the PDP. However, he underscored that the party remains unified at its core.

“PDP is one. It was true that there are internal problems, because a party never lacks problems because its leaders are people, and people are in it, and everyone has their own interests,” he said. His comments suggest a realistic acknowledgment of the political maneuverings and ambitions that frequently cause internal friction.

Rather than dismissing the discord, Damagum’s statement positions him as a stabilizing force committed to fostering cohesion and dialogue. He emphasized that the party’s survival depends on managing these disagreements constructively without compromising the collective mission.

Damagum :Upholds Leadership Integrity, Rejects Pressure from Party Factions

Concluding his remarks, Damagum defended his leadership style, describing himself as principled and resistant to being manipulated by party factions. He noted that much of the criticism against him intensified following the party’s electoral losses, implying that scapegoating has become a convenient strategy for some disgruntled elements.

He reaffirmed his commitment to steering the PDP with transparency and resolve, stating that he would not bow to the whims of individuals pursuing personal agendas. “I adhere to principles and refuse to yield to individual whims,” he declared.

As the PDP prepares for future political battles, Damagum’s leadership and rhetoric suggest a desire to refocus the party on unity and ideological consistency rather than infighting and blame-shifting. Whether his firm stance can restore internal harmony and public confidence remains to be seen in the months ahead.