A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, led by Samuel Anyanwu, has suspended the party’s Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, and five other members of the National Working Committee, NWC. This decision was announced by Anyanwu during a press briefing in Abuja, where he stated that the suspensions were due to various reasons, including incompetence, financial misconduct, and disregard for court judgments.

According to Anyanwu, the suspended members include the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, who was accused of issuing statements without the party’s approval, and the Deputy National Vice Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja. The National Financial Secretary, Daniel Woyenguikoro, was also suspended over alleged financial misconduct. Additionally, the National Youth Leader, Sulaiman Kadade, and the Deputy National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, were suspended for 30 days. All suspended members will face the Disciplinary Committee to show cause why they should not be expelled.

In light of these suspensions, the faction has appointed the National Vice Chairman (North-Central), Mohammed Abdulrahman, as the Acting National Chairman. This development comes after the NWC under Damagum’s leadership had earlier announced the suspension of Samuel Anyanwu, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade, and two other members.

The suspensions and counter-suspensions within the PDP reflect the ongoing power struggle within the party. The faction led by Anyanwu has accused Damagum of incompetence and financial misconduct, while Damagum’s faction has accused Anyanwu of disobedience. The party’s internal conflicts may have significant implications for its future and its ability to present a unified front in upcoming elections.

The PDP is one of the major political parties in Nigeria, and its internal dynamics are closely watched by political analysts and stakeholders. The party has been working to reposition itself ahead of the next general elections, but the current infighting may hinder its progress. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the party will resolve its internal conflicts and move forward.