Amid the growing calls for Umar Iliya Damagum, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, to step down, it is crucial to present the facts many are choosing to ignore. Damagum’s loyalty and dedication to the party are well documented, yet recent criticisms seem to overshadow his years of unwavering service. Let’s set the record straight.
Loyalty to Atiku Over Wike
From the start, Damagum made his loyalties clear. During the PDP Presidential primary, he refused to support Nyesom Wike, standing firmly by Atiku Abubakar. His loyalty to Atiku has been unshakeable, and this is a fact no one can dispute.
A Proven Supporter of Atiku in Yobe
After the primary election, Damagum became one of Atiku’s strongest allies. Despite Yobe State being an APC stronghold, Damagum helped secure a victory for Atiku there, a feat that speaks volumes about his influence. Critics demanding his removal should first present their own election results from their polling units.
Committed Presence at the Election Tribunal
Damagum didn’t just support Atiku during the campaign; he was present at every stage of the Presidential Election Tribunal up to the Supreme Court. His unwavering commitment to Atiku’s cause cannot be questioned.
Strengthening Bonds with Atiku
Upon becoming Acting National Chairman, Damagum’s first official visit was to Atiku’s residence, where he broke his fast during Salah. This move only further solidified his loyalty and respect for the former Vice President.
Upholding Party Integrity in Kogi
When faced with pressure regarding the Kogi governorship primaries, Damagum held firm. He ensured the process that produced Dino Melaye as the PDP candidate was not sabotaged, despite attempts to influence the outcome. While Dino failed to even win his polling unit, it was not for lack of support from Damagum.
Betrayed by Beneficiaries
Ironically, those who benefited most from Damagum’s loyalty are now leading the campaign against him. This betrayal highlights the challenges of leadership within the party.
Standing Firm in Rivers Crisis
Damagum has also been accused of mishandling the Rivers State PDP crisis. However, he refused to cave to individuals in Rivers who sought to present a lawyer that would undermine Governor Sim Fubara’s case at the tribunal. Damagum, alongside PDP Governors, agreed that the Governors’ Forum would propose lasting solutions to the Rivers crisis—a task they have yet to fulfill.
Protecting Fubara’s Interests
Despite accusations, Damagum has consistently protected the interests of Governor Sim Fubara. Both Fubara and Wike have consented to peace proposals, and it is not Damagum’s fault that solutions have been delayed. The Governor himself is aware of Damagum’s support.
A PDP Stalwart Since 1998
Damagum’s loyalty to the PDP dates back to 1998, long before the current wave of critics. Many of those attacking him now have a history of party-hopping when it suited their interests.
The APP Allegations
Critics like Ugochinyere Ikenga, who allegedly owns APP while claiming loyalty to the PDP, couldn’t even deliver his polling unit in Imo during the 2023 elections, despite serving as Director General of the campaign.
The Rivers Accusations
Damagum has been accused of attempting to unseat Governor Fubara, but when the Governor’s loyalists used APP to run for elections due to issues within PDP, Damagum did not criticize them. His restraint demonstrates his balanced approach.
Inconsistent Calls for Suspension
While some demand Wike’s suspension for accepting a position in the Tinubu administration, they fail to call for the suspension of PDP Governors who recommended individuals for appointments under Tinubu. They also remain silent about PDP leaders who openly endorsed candidates from other parties or supported APC candidates in various states.
Supporting Atiku, Asue, and Dino
Wike may not have supported Atiku, Asue Ighodalo in Edo, or Dino Melaye in Kogi, but Damagum did. He continues to support Asue in his legal battle to reclaim his mandate. Yet, these acts of loyalty are conveniently ignored by his detractors.
In conclusion, the ongoing crusade against Damagum echoes past efforts that resulted in the downfall of Jonathan’s administration, paving the way for the rise of the APC. We must learn from history and avoid repeating the same mistakes. The calls for Damagum’s removal are not just misguided—they are a dangerous distraction from the real issues at hand. #NeverAgain
With a strong legal backing that sees him remain as acting chairman till the 2025 National Convention, it is safer and in the party’s best interest to work together and be united by our ties that bind.