The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum as its National Chairman, following an emergency meeting of its Board of Trustees (BoT) held on Wednesday in Abuja.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the BoT restated its confidence in the Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC) and commended its efforts in maintaining stability within the party.
“The Board of Trustees (BoT), at its meeting today, extensively considered recent developments in the party and resolved as follows: the BoT reaffirms that the PDP remains a united, formidable, and focused political party under the leadership of the Amb. Iliya Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC),” the statement read.
The BoT also lauded the PDP Governors’ Forum, the National Convention Organizing Committee, and other critical organs of the party for their “collective roles in stabilising the PDP,” especially as preparations intensify for the Elective National Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
BoT Welcomes Court Ruling
The board expressed satisfaction with the recent judgment of the Oyo State High Court, presided over by Justice A.L. Akintola, which affirmed the PDP’s constitutional right to organise its internal affairs — including holding its convention as planned.
“This landmark ruling is a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and political development in our country,” the party declared.
Concern Over Party Tensions
Despite reaffirming unity, the BoT voiced concern over ongoing tensions within the party, describing recent incidents — including the invasion of the PDP national secretariat — as “regrettable” and uncharacteristic of the party’s values.
“As the conscience of the party, the BoT cannot and will not take sides. Our focus is to safeguard the integrity of the PDP and promote dialogue over discord,” the statement added.
The board emphasized that reconciliation efforts should be viewed “not as a sign of weakness, but as an expression of maturity and responsibility.”
Reconciliation Committee Inaugurated
To restore unity ahead of the Ibadan convention, the BoT announced the formation of a High-Powered Reconciliation Committee tasked with resolving all internal disputes.
The committee members are; Amb. Hassan Adamu (North East) – Chairman, Chief Mike Oghiadomhe (South South) – Secretary, Chief Ugochukwu Okeke (South East), Sen. Zaynab Kure (North Central), Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola (South West) and Dr. Lubna Mohammed Gusau (North West).
The BoT, chaired by Senator Adolphus Wabara, directed the committee to submit its report by Tuesday, November 11, 2025, for further consideration.
