PDP chairman Ayu steps down, replaced by Damagum
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed its Deputy National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, as acting national chairman.
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the party which announced the appointment after a brief meeting, explained that the action was in line with the ruling of court.
A Makurdi High Court presided over by Justice Wilfred Kpochi had on Monday issued an interim order restraining Dr. Iyorchia Ayu from “parading himself as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.”
The order of the court issued followed an ex-parte application brought before the court by a PDP stalwart, Mr. Conrad Utaan against Dr. Ayu and the PDP.
A statement by PDP spokesman Debo Ologunagba announced Damagum as acting national chairman.
“The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at an emergency meeting today, Tuesday, March 28, 2023 acknowledge the Order of the Benue State High Court, dated March 27, 2023 with regards to the Chairmanship position of our great Party.
“After a careful consideration of the Court Order and in line with Section 45 (2) of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017), the NWC resolved that the Deputy National Chairman (North) His Excellency, Amb. Umar Ililya Damagum assumes the National Chairmanship of our Party in acting capacity with effect from today, Tuesday, March 28, 2023.” He added.
The NWC charged all leaders, critical stakeholders, teeming members and supporters of the Party to remain calm and united at this critical time.
Responding to questions on why Ayu came to the office earlier on Tuesday, Damagum said Ayu had every right to visit the office to pack his personal belongings.
Damagum further stated that
“We are just here to fulfil all righteousness. We are acting in line with the court order
“I will be here in acting capacity pending the determination of the suit in court
I will soon meet with the NWC to be briefed about affairs of the Party