PDP Faction Suspends Damagum, 5 Other NWC Members

Internal Turmoil in Nigeria’s PDP: Factional Suspensions Rock Party Leadership

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), one of Nigeria’s major political parties, has plunged into a fresh wave of internal crisis following a dramatic escalation of factional disputes within its national leadership.

On Saturday, November 1, 2025, a faction reportedly aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, announced the suspension of the Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, along with five other members of the National Working Committee (NWC).

This move signals a deepening rift within the party’s hierarchy and raises concerns about its stability ahead of future political engagements.

Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the PDP National Secretary, addressed journalists in Abuja on behalf of the faction, declaring that Damagum had been suspended over allegations of incompetence, financial misconduct, and disobedience to court orders.

In a swift restructuring, the faction named Mohammed Abdulrahman, the National Vice Chairman (North Central), as the new Acting National Chairman.

The suspended officials were given a 30-day ultimatum to appear before the party’s Disciplinary Committee to defend themselves or face expulsion.

The list of suspended NWC members includes Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary; Taofeek Arapaja, Deputy National Chairman (South); Daniel Woyenguikoro, National Financial Secretary; Sulaiman Kadade, National Youth Leader; and Setonji Koshoedo, Deputy National Secretary. This sweeping action has intensified the party’s internal strife and triggered a counter-response.

In retaliation, the NWC loyal to Damagum announced its own set of suspensions, targeting Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), and two other members.

This tit-for-tat maneuver underscores the depth of the division and the struggle for control within the PDP’s top ranks.

The unfolding drama reflects broader tensions within the PDP, particularly between factions loyal to different power blocs.

The involvement of high-profile figures such as Nyesom Wike suggests that the crisis may be rooted in deeper political ambitions and strategic alignments.

As both factions dig in, the party faces a critical test of its internal cohesion and ability to manage dissent without fracturing its national structure.

This episode adds to a series of recent controversies within the PDP, including postponed screenings for the 2025 National Convention and allegations of forgery.

The party’s ability to resolve these disputes amicably will be crucial for its credibility and electoral prospects in the coming years.