Ibrahim Abdullahi, the Acting National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has raised questions about the calls for the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, to suspend Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister. Abdullahi believes that such expectations are unwarranted, as Wike has remained actively involved in party affairs and has consistently provided services to the FCT. He emphasized that it is unfair to criticize Damagum for not taking action against Wike, especially given the latter’s ongoing participation in party activities.
During an interview with Arise TV from 15:37, Abdullahi pointed out that the narrative surrounding Wike has persisted since the 2023 elections, and it seems to dominate discussions about the party. He expressed concern over the media’s continued focus on Wike, suggesting that it has created an environment where other issues within the party are overlooked. Abdullahi argued that Wike has not abandoned his membership in the PDP and has shown commitment through his participation in National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings.
In his remarks, Abdullahi questioned the rationale behind the expectation that Damagum should suspend Wike. He stated that if there were legitimate reasons for such action, it would have been addressed during the NEC meetings, which included various key stakeholders within the party. He noted that no one raised objections or called for Wike’s suspension at that time, which casts doubt on the current criticism directed at Damagum.
He defended Damagum’s leadership, suggesting that it is inappropriate to label him as cowardly for not suspending Wike. He stressed that the PDP should not be reduced to a factionalized group where members are quick to call for punitive actions against one another. Instead, he believes the party should focus on unity and constructive dialogue to address its challenges.
Abdullahi reiterated that the PDP must not allow itself to become a platform for desperate measures that could ultimately undermine its integrity. He called for a more balanced perspective on the situation, encouraging party members to engage in discussions that prioritize the party’s long-term stability rather than fostering division.He hopes that the leadership can focus on strengthening the party rather than getting embroiled in conflicts that detract from its overall mission.
He said, “He has attended the NEC, and in that NEC, you had every other person in attendance. I mean, the members of the NWC, the NEC itself, and the former vice president Atiku Abubakar and the former vice president Namadi Sambo and every critical stakeholder in the PDP was at NEC. And nobody could say a word at that time, so if it was cowardice at that time, why is anyone now coming to blame Damagum for not doing their bidding?”