The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as the new Acting National Chairman, following the suspension of Amb. Illiya Damagum from the position. This sudden development was confirmed in a press release issued by the National Working Committee (NWC) on the morning of October 11, 2024.
The NWC, in a bold move, has approved Yayari's appointment with immediate effect, citing the need to maintain stability within the party at a critical juncture. The decision is in line with the provisions of the PDP Constitution (amended in 2017), ensuring that the party remains compliant with its internal guidelines amidst the leadership shake-up.
The suspension of Amb. Illiya Damagum has sent shockwaves through the ranks of the PDP, as his tenure was expected to steer the party towards key decisions ahead of the 2024 general elections. While the exact reasons for his suspension have not been disclosed, party insiders suggest it could be linked to growing tensions within the party’s leadership over strategic decision-making.
Yayari Ahmed Mohammed, a seasoned political figure within the PDP, now steps into the spotlight at a time when the party is navigating significant internal challenges. His appointment comes just weeks before the party’s highly anticipated National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, scheduled for October 24, 2024. All eyes are on this crucial meeting, where key decisions are expected to shape the future of the PDP.
In the official statement, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, called on all party organs, leaders, stakeholders, and members to remain focused and united during this pivotal moment. “The NWC urges all members to stay committed as we embark on this new chapter, especially with the NEC meeting fast approaching,” Ologunagba stated.
As the PDP gears up for what could be a defining period in its political journey, the appointment of Yayari Ahmed Mohammed is seen as a critical step in maintaining party cohesion and preparing for the challenges ahead.
The coming days will be pivotal for Nigeria’s main opposition party as it navigates the fallout from this leadership shift and prepares for its NEC meeting that could set the tone for its strategy in the months leading up to the next election.
