Umar Damagum is set to continue as the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) until at least next year.
This decision follows preparations for a key meeting at the party’s Abuja headquarters, where the National Working Committee (NWC) will meet with PDP chairmen from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to party insiders, the primary purpose of this gathering is to introduce the NWC to the newly elected state chairmen. However, the meeting will also likely serve as a platform for Damagum’s supporters to consolidate backing from these state leaders ahead of the upcoming 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
A party source explained, “The NEC meeting is expected to proceed as planned, with Damagum retaining his role as acting chairman for the foreseeable future. Many party members and stakeholders see little value in replacing him now for a term of less than ten months when a permanent chairman could instead be elected at the next convention to serve a full four-year term.”
The source highlighted that the delay in appointing a replacement has dampened interest in pursuing a short-term successor. Instead, party members are willing to support Damagum in his interim role until the scheduled elective convention between October and November 2025, where a new NWC will be elected, and candidates for the 2027 elections selected.
Additionally, ongoing legal issues have complicated the replacement process. Although some leaders believe these hurdles could be overcome, others are wary of triggering further litigation. Complicating the matter, Damagum’s support from influential party factions, particularly the group aligned with Nyesom Wike, has been growing. This faction has recently extended its influence into the North-Central zone, led by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, which has delayed the proposal of a new candidate to replace Damagum.
The source continued, “During the meeting on Wednesday, the NWC and Damagum will meet the 36 state and FCT chairmen. While this session is officially aimed at familiarization, it’s anticipated that Damagum’s allies will also use the opportunity to gather endorsements from the state chairmen to secure a majority, if not unanimous, backing before the NEC meeting.”
A vote of confidence in Damagum could even emerge during the NEC meeting on November 28, with some members anticipating this as a means to confirm his continued leadership until the convention. Since not all NEC members hold voting power, there’s a growing expectation that the party may choose this straightforward path.
Another party source confirmed that the notice for the 99th NEC meeting might be issued within the week. “The NEC meeting is set to proceed as planned,” the source said. “Some concerns around Damagum are exaggerated. He was appointed in line with party rules, which require a replacement to come from the same region if an NWC member dies, resigns, or is removed. Damagum, like his predecessor, hails from the North, aligning with the PDP constitution.”
