In a significant political shift, the Adamawa State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its support behind the embattled Umar Damangum, the acting national chairman, over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 presidential race. This move signals trouble for Atiku’s aspirations as his home state diverges from his stance on the party’s leadership, OBSERVERSTIMES recalled that Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has backed efforts to unseat Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The push for Damagum’s removal has divided the 13 PDP governors, with seven, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, supporting the move, while four others, led by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, back Damagum’s retention.
During a press conference in Yola, PDP’s state chairman Abubakar Shehu announced their backing for Damangum to fill the national chairman vacancy, aligning with the constitutional directives of the party.
“The PDP Constitution, specifically Section 47(6), mandates that any vacancy should be filled by an individual from the same zone as the predecessor,” Shehu emphasized, supporting Governor Ahmadu Fintiri and other PDP governors’ endorsement of Damangum.
The endorsement of Damangum, a North-East representative, is seen as a strategic move potentially orchestrated by factions within the PDP, notably those aligned with Nyesome Wike. This development could weaken Atiku’s influence and pave the way for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
This internal party decision reflects broader political maneuvers that could reshape the PDP’s future leadership and impact the national political landscape.
Atiku’s stance is seen as a push for reforms within the party, with sources close to him suggesting that his goal is to uphold democratic principles and the party’s constitution.
Another source said, “Atiku is collaborating with NWC members and other dedicated party leaders to ensure that the right actions are taken to uphold the party’s constitution.”