Eight members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Caretaker Committee in Taraba State have publicly disassociated themselves from a list of newly elected state executives, alleging it was unilaterally released by former caretaker chairman, Dr. Victor Fallack. The move underscores ongoing internal tensions within the party’s state chapter as it navigates a leadership transition.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the eight signatories declared they did not recognize the list circulated by Dr. Fallack, which named him as chairman and included some of their names as members. They asserted the compilation occurred without their knowledge or consultation, violating established procedures. “The action taken by the former chairman was done single-handedly without consulting any member of the Caretaker Committee,” the statement read, emphasizing their formal dissociation to prevent confusion and maintain party cohesion.
The statement, signed by Terna Anzamber, Hikon Hosea, Hamisu Maigari, Zubulun Dauda, Hamman Yakubu Balutu, Hauwa Adam Imam, Ali Musa, and Polycarp Apura, reaffirmed their commitment as party stakeholders to promote unity and peaceful political engagement. They highlighted that their decision to address the issue publicly was driven by a desire to protect the party’s interests and ensure stability in Taraba State.
The dissenting members also took the opportunity to commend the conduct of party delegates during the recent series of congresses at the ward, local government, and state levels. “We want to thank all our delegates for the matured way they conducted themselves from the wards to the local government areas and the state congresses,” the statement noted, praising the process as a demonstration of internal democracy.
This public rejection of a proposed executive list by a majority of the caretaker committee points to a significant rift within the PDP’s Taraba State structure. Caretaker committees are typically appointed by the national party leadership to oversee affairs and supervise congresses leading to the election of a new state executive. The dispute centers on the legitimacy of the recent electoral outcome and the process by which the list was finalized.
The group concluded by calling on all PDP members across Taraba State to remain calm as efforts continue to strengthen the party’s internal democratic processes. Their statement signals a demand for adherence to proper protocol and collective decision-making during this sensitive transition period. The situation reflects broader challenges often faced by Nigerian political parties during leadership renewals, where disputes over delegate lists and election results can strain unity. Resolution will likely depend on intervention from the PDP’s national leadership to validate a legitimate state executive and restore cohesion ahead of future electoral contests.
