PDP Governors Split: Pro-Damagum vs. Anti-Damagum Factions

The internal dynamics of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have taken a new twist as its governors are increasingly split between two opposing factions—those supporting the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Iliya Damagum, and those opposing him. The pro-Damagum faction has rallied significant support from key governors, with Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, and Agbu Kefas of Taraba State emerging as the leading figures backing Damagum.

This faction’s alignment is notably connected to the influence of former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, who, despite defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), still wields considerable clout within the PDP. Wike’s close relationships with governors like Makinde have fostered a strong coalition aiming to protect Damagum’s leadership and potentially allow Wike to assert control over the PDP structure in Rivers State, despite no longer being a member of the party.

Anti-Damagum Governors Resist Centralized Influence

On the other hand, a faction of PDP governors is actively resisting the influence of Wike and the pro-Damagum camp. This anti-Damagum faction includes prominent governors like Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State. These governors are reportedly concerned about the centralization of power within the party and Wike’s influence despite his defection.

According to party insiders, this group prefers a more autonomous and balanced approach to party leadership, in contrast to the pro-Damagum bloc’s push to solidify Wike’s dominance in the PDP’s internal structure. Their opposition reflects deeper tensions within the party, as they fear that Wike’s indirect control via Damagum may undermine the traditional balance of power within the PDP, especially in states like Rivers, where Wike continues to exert substantial influence.

Neutral Governors: Mbah and Lawal Stay on the Sidelines

Amid the escalating tension between the pro-Damagum and anti-Damagum factions, two key governors have chosen to remain neutral. Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal have maintained an indifferent stance, refraining from taking sides in the power struggle. Their neutrality offers a glimpse of the uncertainty within the party, as some PDP governors are likely weighing their options before aligning with either faction.

Both Mbah and Lawal may play a pivotal role in mediating between the two groups or could potentially tip the scales in favor of one faction if they choose to engage. Their positions as neutral actors might also reflect broader concerns about maintaining stability within the PDP amid a growing divide that could affect the party’s strategy leading into future elections. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on these neutral governors and their potential impact on the future of PDP leadership.

Rising Tensions Over Wike’s Role and Rivers State PDP

The internal crisis within the PDP has also been inflamed by disagreements surrounding the role of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, who is seen as a pivotal figure in the ongoing tensions within the Rivers State chapter of the party. Several governors have weighed in, with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke openly supporting constitutional guidelines that mandate the national chairman position should return to the North Central region.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s constitution. He stated that the leadership role should revert to the North Central zone following the exit of former chairman Dr. Iyorchia Ayu. Adeleke also emphasized the need to uphold the earlier decision by the Governors Forum, which called for control of the Rivers PDP to be transferred to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. His stance underscores a growing divide within the party, with some governors pushing for changes in leadership and governance, while others remain loyal to Damagum.

Critical Divisions Ahead of the Edo Gubernatorial Election

As the PDP navigates internal divisions, the timing of these disputes could not be more critical, with the Edo State gubernatorial election slated for Saturday, September 21, 2024. The party has urged voters to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to disrupt or manipulate the election process, particularly in the face of alleged plans by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to deploy fake security personnel to intimidate voters.

In a statement issued by National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, the PDP called on the Inspector General of Police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that all security personnel are properly identified to prevent fraud. The party also highlighted the need for timely delivery of sensitive election materials and directed its polling agents to verify the integrity of BVAS devices before voting begins. The PDP remains confident of victory in Edo, with the party’s leadership pledging to safeguard the democratic process and prevent any attempts to subvert the will of the people.