Former Governor of Benue State, Senator Gabriel Suswam, has called for the removal of the Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, citing inadequate leadership as the primary reason for his demand.
This assertion was made during an expanded caucus meeting of the PDP held in Makurdi.
Senator Suswam expressed his dissatisfaction with Damagum’s performance, alleging that under his leadership, the party has been transformed into a profit-driven entity rather than a political organization committed to public service.
“Damagum must go, whether they like it or not,” he declared emphatically, emphasizing that he believes Damagum is unfit to continue in his role.
The former governor further lamented that the national leadership, under Damagum’s direction, appears to be actively working towards the party’s demise, and he vowed to resist any attempts to undermine the PDP.
Suswam accused the national leadership of collaborating with detrimental elements to destabilize the party from within.In his critique, Suswam pointed out that there seems to be a conspiracy among certain party leaders aimed at orchestrating what he described as “kangaroo” local government and state congresses in Benue State.
He raised concerns about the legitimacy of these congresses, questioning how delegates could be selected for the state congress without proper local and ward congresses being conducted.
He branded these actions as a sham, stating unequivocally that such proceedings would not be recognized or accepted.Senator Suswam reassured attendees that the party is not lacking in innovative ideas and strategies.
He emphasized that should their current approaches fail, they are prepared to explore alternative and more effective strategies to revitalize the party’s fortunes.In a show of solidarity, the Benue State Chairman of the PDP, Mr. Christian Adaba Abah, acknowledged the unwavering support of party members and encouraged them to remain steadfast in their faith in the PDP.
He assured them that their loyalty would not go unrewarded.
During the meeting, other key speakers, including Udu Nyitse representing Benue North East, Cletus Upaa for Benue North West, John Ngbede for Benue South, and Hyacinth Inyakuma, who spoke on behalf of former members of the House of Assembly, reaffirmed their commitment to the PDP.
They expressed confidence that the party would emerge stronger and work towards reclaiming its mandate in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The gathering highlighted a growing discontent among some party members regarding the current leadership and underscored a collective desire for change within the PDP.
As discussions about the party’s future continue, the call for Umar Damagum’s resignation reflects deeper concerns about the direction and effectiveness of the PDP as it prepares for future electoral challenges.
