PDP BoT Criticizes National Leadership Over NEC Meeting Delays, Plans January Meeting with Wike

The PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) expresses dissatisfaction with delays in convening NEC meetings and announces a planned engagement with Governor Wike in January to address party issues.

The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced its displeasure regarding the continual delays in holding the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting under Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum’s leadership.

At an emergency meeting in Abuja on Thursday, BoT Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara expressed criticism towards the National Working Committee (NWC) for failing to hold the NEC meeting as planned.

He also reiterated the BoT’s dedication to addressing the party’s internal issues, including scheduling a meeting with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike in January.

Since taking on the role of acting National Chairman after Senator Iyorchia Ayu was removed by the court, Damagum has been met with increasing criticism from party stakeholders. Numerous individuals have urged him to resign due to persistent disagreements within the party.

At the party’s 98th NEC meeting on April 18, several important resolutions were made: forming a reconciliation and disciplinary committee, planning Ward and State Congresses, and having consultations by the North Central Caucus to select a permanent National Chairman.

Despite these efforts, the NEC meeting originally set for August 15 was postponed several times—initially to October 24, then to November 28, and now it has been delayed indefinitely.

The PDP Governors Forum, under the leadership of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, has stepped in to urge the NWC to schedule the NEC meeting by February 2025 at the latest.

Senator Wabara cautioned that the ongoing delays are eroding party members’ trust and confidence, jeopardizing the PDP’s unity and its capacity to operate effectively as a major opposition party.

He expressed, “We are gathered today in difficult self-imposed circumstances due to our shared apprehension about the current state of our esteemed party. As guardians of the conscience and legacy of the Peoples Democratic Party, it is our duty to maintain this institution’s integrity and ensure it remains a symbol of hope for democracy and good governance in our beloved country.”

I must convey the Board’s profound disappointment regarding the National Working Committee’s ongoing postponement of a National Executive Committee meeting. This delay erodes our members’ trust and confidence.

We acknowledge that challenges might occur during governance and administration, but sticking to timelines and commitments is essential. As the Board of Trustees acts as the party’s conscience, we expect the NWC to keep its promise by holding the NEC meeting on time. This is vital for addressing urgent matters and establishing a clear direction for the party moving forward.

Wabara highlighted that the PDP’s strength is rooted in its unity and dedication to democratic principles, pointing out that the NEC serves as a vital platform for decision-making, consultation, and collaboration among all levels of party leadership.

The former Senate President stated, “Any additional delays might worsen current issues and create unnecessary division among us. As the Board of Trustees, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to uphold accountability and ensure compliance with the party’s constitution.”

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We call upon the NWC to step up, show leadership and responsibility, and ensure that the scheduled NEC meeting next February takes place as planned.

Nationally, the stringent economic policies of the Tinubu Administration have intensified the hardships faced by Nigerians.

The soaring cost of living, combined with poorly executed economic reforms, has driven millions further into poverty. Promises of economic relief have turned out to be empty, leaving families battling to make ends meet.

Our party needs to seize this moment by presenting credible alternatives and amplifying the voices of those in distress. Let us reaffirm our dedication to fairness, equity, and prosperity for all Nigerians.

Wabara emphasized the need for the PDP to organize internally, highlighting that its strength arises from collective determination rather than individual ambitions.

He expressed that personal ambitions or differences must not be allowed to overshadow our collective vision for a better Nigeria.

The governors are fundamental to the PDP’s achievements across various states, and their cooperation is crucial for our shared advancement. We should focus on dialogue, collaboration, and a sense of mutual responsibility as we navigate these challenging times together.

“The BoT is committed to tirelessly pursuing peace and unity within our party as the PDP’s moral compass. As part of this effort, in the new year, the BoT will renew its initiative for reconciliation, beginning with former Governor Nyesom Wike. The board had previously pledged to meet him again to foster enduring peace.”