The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has ratified Umar Damagum as the substantive National Chairman of the party, a position he will hold until the elective national convention in November.
The decision, one of the key outcomes of the 102nd NEC meeting held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, was formalised with an oath of office administered by the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, in line with Article 65 of the PDP Constitution.
The convention is scheduled to take place from November 15 to 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In his acceptance speech, Damagum expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the National Working Committee (NWC) for their support, noting that their collective efforts had kept the party united despite challenging circumstances.
“This gesture is not just for me, but for the entire NWC,” he said. “We came in at a time when things were very hard, but to the glory of God, we are still intact as one indivisible party.”
Damagum first assumed the role of acting national chairman on March 28, 2023, following a Benue State High Court ruling that removed former Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu. His appointment was announced by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, pursuant to Section 45 (2) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017).
Before then, Damagum served as the PDP Deputy National Chairman (North).
