PDP Crisis Worsens as 11 NWC Members Oppose Damagum, Anyanwu

• Eleven of the 17 members of the PDP National Working Committee oppose Acting Chairman Damagum’s legal representation in a Supreme Court appeal
• Disagreements over the appointment of external legal counsel highlight ongoing tensions and constitutional disputes within the party’s leadership structure

The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepened over the weekend as 11 out of 17 members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) openly rejected the actions of Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, and embattled National Secretary, Sen. Samuel Anyanwu.

The dispute centers on a contentious legal representation in a Supreme Court appeal involving Sen. Anyanwu, which has further exposed the cracks within the party’s leadership.

The disagreement stems from a letter dated December 20, 2024, in which Damagum appointed the law firm of Dr. J.Y. Musa SAN and Co., allegedly linked to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to represent the PDP in the appeal. Damagum claimed to have acted on behalf of the NWC.

However, 11 NWC members, including Deputy National Chairman (South) Amb. Taofeek Arapaja, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade SAN, and National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba, countered Damagum’s decision. In a letter submitted to the Court of Appeal on January 23, 2025, they urged the court to disregard Damagum’s directive.

The NWC members argue that the responsibility of appointing external legal counsel lies solely with the National Legal Adviser, as stipulated in Article 42 of the PDP Constitution.

They described Damagum’s unilateral action as unconstitutional and urged the Supreme Court to reject any representation by Dr. Musa (SAN) or other appointees not authorized by the National Legal Adviser.

The position of National Secretary has been a source of tension since Anyanwu left to contest the Imo governorship election, which he lost.

The South East Caucus of the party endorsed Sunday Ude-Okoye as his replacement, a decision upheld by an Appeal Court in Enugu on December 20, 2024.

Despite this, Anyanwu has filed for a Stay of Execution and an appeal, with Damagum’s appointment of Dr. Musa (SAN) as legal counsel triggering the current standoff.

Hon. Debo Ologunagba, speaking on behalf of the opposing NWC members, emphasized that their position aligns with the party’s constitution. “The appointment of external solicitors is strictly the duty of the National Legal Adviser. Any other action is null and void.”

The crisis has highlighted the increasing divisions within the PDP’s leadership and could significantly impact the party’s unity and effectiveness ahead of future elections.

Efforts to mediate the growing tensions will be critical to restoring stability within the party.