A seeming discord is trailing plans for the 100th National Executive Committee meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party as the acting National Chairman Umar Damagum distanced the party from comments made by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, regarding communication with the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
Ologunagba had stated at a press conference that the PDP was not obligated to notify INEC about its internal meetings, including the NEC meeting scheduled for June 30.
However, Damagum, in a statement personally signed and released to the media, described Ologunagba’s remarks as unauthorized and not reflective of the party’s official stance. He emphasized that the comment was made without the approval of the National Working Committee.
“In my capacity as the acting national chairman, I wish to make it categorically clear that the views expressed by Ologunagba in that press interaction were entirely his personal opinions and do not represent the official position of the PDP,” Damagum stated.
He added that a meeting involving party leaders, stakeholders, and the INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, was scheduled to address concerns raised in a recent letter from INEC.
Damagum criticized Ologunagba for making public comments on a sensitive issue without proper internal consultation. He reiterated PDP’s commitment to respecting due process, discipline, and unity in handling party affairs.
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“The PDP remains committed to conducting its 100th NEC meeting in accordance with constitutional provisions and democratic norms. However, we will do so with collective consensus and proper coordination, not through personal posturing,” he said.
Following the backlash, Ologunagba admitted that his comments were premature and not made with proper consultation, especially as a meeting with INEC had already been scheduled for June 24.
He expressed appreciation for the support of party members and pledged a responsible resolution of internal matters.
Previously, the PDP had written to INEC on May 30, inviting the commission to the NEC meeting. INEC responded on June 13, stating the notice was not compliant with the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties, as it was not jointly signed by both the national chairman and national secretary.
Ologunagba had earlier claimed that PDP only needed to inform INEC when conducting elective conventions, congresses, or primaries.
He argued the invitation for the NEC meeting was a courtesy gesture, not a requirement.
NAN
