The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is currently embroiled in a leadership crisis with increasing pressure on the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, to step down.
Amidst this turmoil, some chieftains led by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde are reportedly advocating for Damagum to retain his position.
Conversely, other senior party members are pushing for a shift in power back to the North Central zone, notably the home region of the suspended former chairman, Iyorchia Ayu.
This has intensified the political dynamics within the party as several influential figures from the North Central, particularly from Benue State, position themselves as potential successors.
Among the top contenders is former Senate President David Mark, whose candidacy is being seriously considered.
With the next National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting approaching, the party is at a crucial juncture to resolve these leadership disputes and forge a path forward.
While Mark has yet to officially declare his candidacy, some party stakeholders are pushing for him to step in, viewing him as a stabilizing force that could rebuild the party after months of infighting.
Mark’s long-standing involvement with the PDP, dating back to its founding in 1998, coupled with his experience as Senate president, makes him a respected figure within the party.
Another key contender is former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam, who represented Benue North East in the 9th Senate.
Since indicating his interest in succeeding Damagum, Suswan has faced resistance from his political rival, former Governor, Samuel Ortom. Despite this opposition, Suswam remains a strong candidate, pledging to reposition the PDP if given the opportunity to lead.
Emmanuel Agbo, the Director General of the PDP Governors Forum, is also in the running. Agbo, who previously served as the party’s Deputy National Secretary, is reportedly backed by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.
His appointment as DG was seen as a way to placate members of the North Central zone following Ayu’s suspension, and he is now considered a serious contender for the chairmanship.
Phillip Salawu, former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, has also thrown his hat into the ring. He argues that other states within the North Central zone should be given the chance to complete Ayu’s term, rather than the chairmanship remaining in Benue State.
Engineer Conrad Utaan, who secured a judgment that confirmed Ayu’s suspension, is another potential candidate. Utaan, from the same senatorial zone as Ayu, claims he is best suited to complete Ayu’s tenure.