The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, asserted that former Rivers State Governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is not above the party and hinted at potential sanctions against him and others engaged in anti-party activities.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Damagum responded to questions about the party’s stance on Wike and individuals involved in actions contrary to the party’s interests during the recent general elections.
Some stakeholders within the PDP had urged Damagum to take action against Wike for alleged anti-party activities, coinciding with the Minister of FCT being blamed for the ongoing political crisis in PDP-controlled Rivers State.
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Damagum emphasized that as long as individuals are members of the PDP, there is a time for everything, and his primary duty is to stabilize the party without causing unnecessary crises.
He assured that when situations go out of hand, the party would take appropriate action, considering the legal framework.
Damagum pointed out that it’s not only Wike who may face sanctions but also others who worked against the party’s interests.
He stated, “If Wike believes he is above this party, we will be able to show him that he is not above this party.”
Damagum clarified that there was never a time Wike explicitly stated that he is not a member of the PDP.
He mentioned the party’s yet-to-be-inaugurated 2023 review committee, which will present a report and recommend suitable sanctions against those involved in anti-party activities.
Damagum highlighted that the review committee’s scope extends beyond individual cases, covering all persons who, in one way or another, engaged in anti-party activities during the 2023 elections.
After receiving the committee’s report, the party will assess the recommended measures to be taken against those found in violation of party principles.
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