By: Palmer Ogheneyole Nathaniel
In a dramatic twist within the ranks of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the National Working Committee (NWC) has announced the immediate suspension of the Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Illiya Damagum, and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, for alleged anti-party activities. The action follows their controversial involvement in a letter addressed to the Court of Appeal in a case where 27 former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), vacated their PDP seats.
The NWC, in a press release signed by National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba, condemned the actions of Damagum and Anyanwu as a direct violation of the PDP Constitution and their oaths of office. Their decision to address the court on an issue contrary to the party’s stance raised concerns within party leadership, leading to this drastic measure.
“Consequently, the NWC, pursuant to Sections 57, 58 and 59 of the PDP Constitution, has suspended Amb. Illiya Damagum and Sen. Samuel Anyanwu as Acting National Chairman and National Secretary of the Party respectively and referred them to the National Disciplinary Committee for for further action”, the statement reads in part.
The internal discord comes at a time when the PDP is still grappling with the influence of Rivers State’s strongman and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Damagum and Anyanwu have been viewed by some party insiders as aligned with Wike, whose political maneuvers within and outside the party have continued to stir debate. Many within the party have dubbed the duo as “Wike’s puppets,” further straining their standing among party loyalists.
The decision to suspend both key officials underscores the party’s resolve to address any semblance of disloyalty as it navigates complex political waters ahead of future elections. The investigation by the National Disciplinary Committee is expected to delve deeper into the actions of Damagum and Anyanwu and provide recommendations on their future within the party.
