Umar Damagum, PDP National Chairman Faces Suspension as Wike-Backed PDP Faction Declares Leadership Overhaul

Umar Damagum, the National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has been suspended by a faction loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The suspension, announced on Saturday in Abuja, marks a new escalation in the party’s long-running leadership crisis.

Umar Damagum was accused of incompetence, financial misconduct, and disregard for court rulings by the factional National Working Committee (NWC) led by Senator Samuel Anyanwu. The faction also announced that Mohammed Abdulrahman, the National Vice Chairman (North Central), will serve as the Acting National Chairman pending further disciplinary proceedings.

Umar Damagum’s suspension was explained as necessary to “protect the integrity of the party and uphold constitutional order.” Senator Anyanwu, speaking on behalf of the faction, declared that the suspended officials must appear before the PDP Disciplinary Committee to justify why they should not be expelled from the party altogether.

Umar Damagum’s Allies Also Suspended Amid Fresh Allegations of Financial and Ethical Breaches

Umar Damagum’s leadership woes deepened as five other top PDP officials were suspended alongside him. Senator Anyanwu detailed that Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary, was suspended for issuing unauthorized statements, while Taofeek Arapaja, the Deputy National Vice Chairman (South), was also sanctioned.

Umar Damagum’s administration has been under scrutiny for months, with growing accusations of financial mismanagement and failure to enforce internal party discipline. The faction alleged that several executives had engaged in misconduct that violated the party’s code of conduct and the principles of transparency expected from the National Working Committee.

Umar Damagum’s suspension also extended to Daniel Woyenguikoro, the National Financial Secretary, Sulaiman Kadade, the National Youth Leader, and Setonji Koshoedo, the Deputy National Secretary. All six officials are now facing a 30-day suspension and must appear before the Disciplinary Committee to defend themselves against the charges.

Umar Damagum’s Suspension Deepens PDP Power Struggle as Wike’s Influence Grows

Umar Damagum’s removal has triggered a wave of tension within the PDP, with observers describing it as a direct confrontation between the Wike-led bloc and the northern leadership faction of the party. The crisis underscores the deep divisions and power tussles that have plagued the opposition party since the aftermath of the 2023 general elections.

Umar Damagum’s loyalists have since denounced the suspension as “illegal, unconstitutional, and politically motivated.” They insist that only the National Executive Committee (NEC) has the authority to discipline the National Chairman, and have vowed to challenge the decision in court. This legal standoff could plunge the PDP further into chaos and delay any meaningful reconciliation efforts.

Damagum’s suspension also signals a broader realignment within the PDP, as Nyesom Wike’s faction continues to assert dominance ahead of 2027. Political analysts warn that the ongoing feud may split the PDP into rival camps, undermining its position as Nigeria’s main opposition force and weakening its chances of national revival.