In a potential last-minute twist, former Senate President David Mark may step into the role of national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Pressure is intensifying from governors, key party stakeholders, and concerned members urging Mark to accept the position to stabilize the party ahead of the upcoming national convention, where a new chairman will be elected.
Despite initially rejecting the offer, citing time constraints, sources indicate that influential figures—including a former president, a retired general, and a former minister of defense—have reached out to persuade him to take on the role for the sake of party unity.
A PDP stakeholder, who requested anonymity, confirmed that discussions have been held regarding Mark’s potential appointment to complete the North Central tenure. However, two main concerns were raised: Mark expressed doubts about his ability to effectively stabilize the party and reconcile its factions within the limited remaining time.
“There are intentions to stabilize the party and reconcile the factions, but he feels he may not be strong enough for such a task,” the stakeholder noted. “They wanted him to come on board, but the challenge is that only one year remains in the tenure.”
As the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for October 24 approaches, there are growing concerns about its viability. The stakeholder remarked that even if the meeting occurs, it may only serve to adjust timelines rather than facilitate a smooth transition, as the North Central zone has yet to convene to propose a candidate.
The North Central faction of the party is eager to see someone complete the tenure of Sen. Iyorchia Ayu, who was removed by court order. Meanwhile, Acting National Chairman Amb. Umar Damagum has resisted stepping down, seeking legal recourse to prevent his removal.
This situation has sparked significant controversy, with allegations that certain individuals may be attempting to destabilize the party in anticipation of the 2027 elections.
In related news, Bala Mohammed, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, has denied any involvement in legal actions aimed at ensuring the NEC meeting takes place. The PDP Governors’ Forum released a statement clarifying that Governor Mohammed has no connection to a suit filed at the Federal High Court in Zamfara State, which purportedly seeks to compel the convening of the NEC meeting.
“This is to emphatically state that the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum does not, in any way, have anything to do with the said suit,” the statement read, urging supporters and the public to disregard what it termed a “dubious and malicious” claim aimed at tarnishing Governor Mohammed’s reputation.