From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party has expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay in convening the party’s National Executive Committee meeting.
The BoT raised the alarm during an emergency meeting held at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday.
Chairman of the Board, Senator Adolphus Wabara, urged the National Working Committee led by Acting Chairman Amb. Umar Damagum, to honor its commitment and schedule the NEC meeting without further delays.
The NEC meeting, initially slated for April, was rescheduled multiple times — from August 15 to October 24, and then to November 28, before being indefinitely postponed.
The meeting is critical to addressing pressing party issues, including the appointment of a substantive National Chairman to replace Damagum and complete the tenure of the suspended Iyorchia Ayu.
At a meeting on November 24, PDP governors advised the NWC to ensure the NEC meeting is held by the first week of February 2025.
Wabara, speaking at the BoT meeting, lamented the repeated postponements, noting that they have eroded trust among party members.
“It is with a deep sense of disappointment that I must express the board’s dismay at the continued shifting by the National Working Committee (NWC) in convening a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. Adherence to timelines and commitments is non-negotiable,” he stated.
The BoT chairman emphasized that the NEC serves as a vital platform for decision-making and collaboration within the party’s leadership. He warned that further delays could exacerbate internal challenges and create unnecessary discord.
“As custodians of the PDP’s conscience and legacy, we must uphold the integrity of this institution. The BoT will not relent in its efforts to ensure accountability and adherence to the party’s constitution,” Wabara said.
He called on the NWC to demonstrate leadership and responsibility by ensuring the NEC meeting is convened as scheduled in February 2025.
Wabara also criticised the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as poorly implemented and detrimental to Nigerians.
“The skyrocketing cost of living and poorly executed economic policies have plunged millions into deeper poverty. Promises of economic relief have only left families struggling to make ends meet,” he said.
The BoT chairman called on the PDP to provide credible alternatives and amplify the voices of the suffering masses.
Wabara stressed the need for unity within the PDP, urging governors and party members to prioritize collective goals over personal ambitions.
“The strength of our party lies in our collective resolve, not in individual pursuits. We must not let personal ambitions overshadow our shared vision for a better Nigeria,” he added.
He assured that the BoT would remain committed to fostering peace and unity within the party, announcing plans to engage in dialogue with former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, early next year as part of efforts to mend internal divisions.
The BoT reiterated its dedication to upholding fairness, equity, and prosperity for all Nigerians, while maintaining that internal cohesion is crucial for the PDP to effectively challenge the ruling government.
