Ahmed Yayari assumes PDP chairmanship position, insists on Oct 24 NEC

Ahmed Yayari Mohammed, the factional acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has officially assumed leadership following his appointment by a faction opposed to Illiya Damagum’s leadership.

In a statement released on Sunday, Yayari expressed his concerns about the party’s failure to meet expectations as the main opposition, attributing it to poor leadership.

Yayari emphasized that under his leadership, the new National Working Committee (NWC) would operate within the framework of the rule of law and the party’s constitution.

The development comes amid ongoing defections and internal power struggles within the PDP, raising questions about the party’s future direction.

This leadership battle marks another chapter in the ongoing tussles that have challenged the PDP’s cohesion and ability to effectively counter the ruling party.

He said, “NWC under my leadership will be guided strictly by the Constitution of our Party and I will at all times be fair to all members irrespective of their status, position or state in the Party. Only this will guarantee and engender loyalty and commitment of our teeming members.

“In this regard, my primary goal, focus and mandate in the onerous assignment is to restore confidence of our members by immediately setting in motion the process to hold the long overdue National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of our Party already scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024.

“In line with the provision of our Party’s Constitution, the North Central Zone which is constitutionally entitled to produce a replacement to serve out the tenure of the former National Chairman, Sen. Iyorchia Ayu is hereby requested to urgently meet and forward its nominee to my office for necessary preparation and forwarding for consideration and approval by NEC at the October 24, 2024 meeting.”

Yayari who said he was humbled by the numerous messages of solidarity, support and best wishes received from members since he was appointed Acting National Chairman said the NWC is now “ready and willing to play the role of effective opposition in the quest to develop our democracy and seek for responsible and responsive government in our country.”