The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Umar Damagum, has distanced the party from the South-South Zonal Congress held in Calabar, Cross River State, on February 22.
The event, reportedly organized by supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has been declared unofficial by the party leadership.
Speaking in Abuja at the inauguration of the South-South Zonal Caretaker Committee, Damagum clarified that the party had not yet conducted any official zonal congress in the region.
He emphasized that the tenure of the previous executives had only recently expired and that plans for a legitimate congress were still underway.
“As far as the PDP is concerned, no official election has taken place in the South-South,” Damagum stated. “Since the zonal committee’s tenure has ended, we have a few weeks before the congress is scheduled. Until then, this caretaker committee will oversee affairs in the zone.”
He expressed confidence in the newly appointed committee members, urging them to uphold fairness and inclusivity in their leadership. Damagum also reaffirmed the PDP’s resilience, positioning the party as a strong contender in the 2027 elections.
“The PDP remains the party to beat. We have a history spanning 27 years, making us one of the most experienced political organizations in Nigeria,” he said. “Unlike the APC and other younger parties, the PDP has consistently endured, proving its stability and capacity for leadership.”
He cautioned party leaders against aligning with the ruling government out of intimidation, urging them to stay committed to the party’s vision.
“Your destiny is in your hands,” he remarked. “It is disheartening to see some leaders backing the current administration out of fear. We must stand firm because Nigerians deserve better.”
Chairman of the caretaker committee, Emmanuel Ogidi, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and assured the party leadership of their commitment to carrying out their duties with impartiality.
