PDP BoT Criticizes NWC Over NEC Delays, Plans Peace Talks With Wike
The crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepened on Thursday as the Board of Trustees (BoT) criticized the National Working Committee (NWC), led by Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, for repeatedly postponing the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
Speaking at an emergency BoT meeting in Abuja, the Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, expressed disappointment over the indefinite postponement of the NEC meeting, initially scheduled for August 15, 2024, and rescheduled multiple times. Wabara warned that such delays erode the trust and confidence of party members, urging the NWC to honor its commitment to hold the meeting by February 2025.
“Adherence to timelines and commitments is non-negotiable,” Wabara stated. “Further delays could exacerbate existing challenges and sow unnecessary discord within our ranks. The NEC is essential for decision-making and consultation across all levels of our leadership.”
Wabara emphasized that the BoT, as the conscience of the party, remains committed to promoting accountability and unity. He revealed plans to continue reconciliation efforts, starting with a scheduled meeting with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike in January 2025.
Since assuming leadership following Senator Iyorchia Ayu’s removal by the courts, Damagum has faced mounting criticism from party stakeholders, with calls for his resignation intensifying. At the 98th NEC meeting in April, the party approved the creation of a reconciliation and disciplinary committee, and tasked the North Central Caucus with recommending a permanent replacement for the acting chairman.
The PDP Governors Forum, chaired by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, has also expressed frustration, directing the NWC to convene the NEC by February at the latest.
Addressing National and Internal Challenges
Wabara also criticized the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, highlighting the harsh effects of inflation and poorly implemented reforms on Nigerians. “The skyrocketing cost of living has pushed millions into deeper poverty,” he said. “Our party must rise to the occasion by offering credible alternatives and amplifying the voices of the suffering masses.”
Internally, Wabara urged the PDP to prioritize unity and avoid allowing personal ambitions to overshadow collective goals. “Our governors are the bedrock of the PDP’s successes. Their synergy is vital for our collective progress,” he stated.
Support for BoT’s Intervention
Former PDP National Publicity Secretary Kola Ologbondiyan praised the BoT’s actions as “timely, patriotic, and commendable.” In his statement, he noted that the decision to mandate the North Central zone to nominate a replacement for Ayu aligns with longstanding demands from the zone.
“The BoT’s bold and courageous decision must be commended by the rank and file of the party,” Ologbondiyan stated, adding that it reflects the party’s commitment to fairness and stability.
As the PDP continues to grapple with internal and external challenges, the BoT’s interventions underscore the need for unity and decisive action to restore confidence in the party’s leadership and vision.
