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ABUJA, Nigeria - Acting National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Umar Damagum, the chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Adolphus Wabara, and other key stakeholders sought to reassure party members concerning the recent wave of defections ahead of the 2027 elections, asserting that there is no reason for concern.
This statement was made in Abuja during the inauguration of new BoT members at the party's Wadata national secretariat. Damagum, represented by Chief Setonji Kosheodo, commended the BoT for including the National Working Committee (NWC) in the event.
The list of new inductees features former Governors Samuel Ortom of Benue state, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu state, Lucky Igbinedion of Edo state, and Muazu Babangida Aliyu of Niger state, among others, including former Kano state Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, former National Vice Chairman Eddy Olafeso from South West, former Minister of Information Labaran Maku, former Minister of National Planning Mohammed Daggash, and others. Reports indicated that approximately 85 out of 127 PDP BoT members had stopped participating in party activities, emphasizing the necessity for new members to reinvigorate the major opposition party amidst several challenges.
In his address at the inauguration, Damagum characterized the BoT as the party's conscience, highlighting its constitutional duty to guide the PDP, being Nigeria’s leading party and a symbol for Africa.
He stated, “We in the NWC are here as your chief servants, ready to rely on your advice and guidance. We assure you of our full support for the smooth operation of the party. Congratulations to the nominees. This day is one of joy and celebration for all of us. We look forward to a time when more members, including ourselves, will ascend to this esteemed group. Thank you for your contributions and for upholding the values of the PDP.”
Wabara, while expressing excitement, remarked that the continued presence of accomplished Nigerians in the party was heartening.
He declared, “The board of trustees has always asserted that the PDP will endure. This is evident now. The God of PDP never sleeps and will not sleep. It is an honor to stand before you today as we inaugurate new members from their respective states and regions to the BoT of our great party, in accordance with sections 321F and G of the party's constitution as amended in 2027.
“This occasion signifies a new beginning and reaffirms our shared commitment to the values and principles defining our party. We welcome a distinguished group of individuals whose dedication and loyalty to the PDP have earned them a place on this prestigious board. Your appointment is a call to serve and uphold the integrity, unity, and vision of our party as we aim for a prosperous and democratic Nigeria.
“As guardians of the party’s conscience, the BoT plays a vital role in offering wise counsel, promoting stability, and ensuring our decisions align with the PDP's core goals. Your role encompasses not only guidance to the party’s leadership but also acting as a stabilizing force during challenging times. This inauguration is crucial as we prepare to navigate the changing political landscape and work diligently to re-establish the PDP as Nigeria's premier party. The road ahead is challenging, but through unity, determination, and a steadfast commitment to democratic principles, we will prevail.
“PDP is not dead; let us continue to collaborate to honor our founding fathers’ vision and build a stronger, more inclusive, and progressive party. Together, we will elevate our party to new levels of success and relevance in Nigeria’s political arena,” he concluded.
On behalf of the newly inaugurated BoT members, Olafeso remarked that this inauguration marks a new chapter for the PDP.
He stated, “This signifies a renewal of our party’s glorious past and a commitment to ensuring that the PDP effectively serves as a robust opposition across the country. We are bringing new ideas, new people, and a refreshed mindset.
“With our leadership quality and rich heritage, we can enhance Nigeria beyond its current state. We are eager to resume work, and that is exactly our intention.
Many of us have upheld the PDP for over 20 years, and we remain dedicated to this path. We aim to restore the party’s former glory, where families can educate their children, where insecurity diminishes, and where economic conditions and employment begin to improve.”
Another new BoT member, Hon Jones Onyeriri from Imo state, labeled the event as uplifting and exciting, emphasizing the strength of the party due to the caliber of individuals committed to its continuity. He suggested that the departures of certain individuals from the party were not significant challenges, drawing a parallel that even Jesus Christ had disciples who departed at one point.
He remarked, “For me, this indicates that we are closer to our victory. We have taken control and remain formidable. There is no sabotage occurring within the party; trust me as anyone pursuing that course is already out of the party.”
