By: Lydia Zakka
The current leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is under heavy criticism following the alarming decline in the party’s attractiveness, with claims that the leadership style of the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun, has significantly contributed to its troubles.
In a scathing attack, members of the PDP Minority Consultative Forum expressed their disappointment over the situation, stating that it is the first time in the history of the party that no aspirants are willing to purchase nomination forms for upcoming elections. This, they argued, is a clear reflection of how unattractive the party has become under the current leadership.
The forum members singled out Damagun and another party figure, SamDaddy and Wike, accusing them of playing pivotal roles in undermining the party’s fortunes. “He [Damagun] has allowed himself to be used to destroy our party,” said one member, who wished to remain anonymous. “His leadership style has led us to this shameful point.”
The discontent was further amplified by claims that the PDP is facing numerous legal battles across the country, particularly over contentious congresses conducted under Damagun’s leadership. “More than 20 states are in court over the congresses Damagun conducted. How do you run a party with so many litigations?” a concerned party member said.
The lack of interest in purchasing forms, especially in states where the PDP does not currently have a governor, has raised alarms that the situation could worsen in the near future. In Anambra State, for example, not a single person has shown interest in obtaining the party’s nomination form. This has only intensified concerns over the party’s dwindling relevance.
The forum’s members voiced their frustration, emphasizing that the current situation threatens to dismantle the party completely. “It appears they have dismantled and derailed the party,” another member stated. “This is why some of us are saying there is no future for the PDP as it is presently constituted.” Mr Jalo Enock stated.
The group also expressed fears that the party’s lack of vibrancy could lead to the emergence of a broader coalition of opposition leaders, which they believe is the only way forward for the opposition in the current political climate.
The forum directed further criticism at individuals they believe are being paid to defend Damagun’s leadership online, urging them to reconsider their positions. “It doesn’t even pay if the party is not vibrant. The money you think you’re receiving, you’ll make more if your party is alive,” one forum member noted, highlighting the importance of a strong, united party.
In the face of these mounting criticisms, it remains to be seen how the PDP leadership will respond to the discontent within its ranks, and whether the party can recover its lost momentum before the next election cycle.
