The rebuttal followed a statement by the self-styled PDP Renaissance Group, which, through its spokesperson Comrade Ben Terdue, cited Section 47(6) of the PDP Constitution (amended in 2017) to press for a leadership shift. The group even threatened to withdraw its support for the party should its demand be ignored.
In a counter-statement issued Sunday, the PDP-UPG discredited the Renaissance Group as “unauthorized and unrecognized” within the party hierarchy, labeling its assertions as “mischievous” and “misleading.”
The Unity Group clarified that the constitutional provision cited applies to the broader northern region, not specifically the North Central, and does not entitle any particular zone to exclusive claims.
Backing its argument with Section 45(2) of the PDP Constitution, the PDP-UPG underscored the legal and procedural complexities surrounding the office of the National Chairman.
It also affirmed the legitimacy of Ambassador Umar Damagun as Acting National Chairman, asserting that established party precedents validate his continued leadership.
The group referenced the seamless transition that followed the exit of former National Chairman Prince Uche Secondus from the South-South, who was succeeded by Elder Yemi Akinwonmi of the South-West—both from the southern region. That transition, it noted, prioritized unity over regional contestation.
Urging calm within the party, the PDP-UPG called on the Renaissance Group and its North Central supporters to support Damagun and the National Working Committee (NWC) as the party moves toward its National Convention.
The group commended Damagun’s inclusive leadership style, diplomatic finesse, and commitment to party revitalization.
“Any attempt to undermine Damagun’s leadership is not only counterproductive but will ultimately prove futile,” the statement read, emphasizing that Damagun has kept the party intact during turbulent periods and continues to restore its national relevance.
Reaffirming its endorsement, the PDP-UPG encouraged all stakeholders to unite in strengthening the party, stressing that solidarity—not division—is the cornerstone of the PDP’s revival.
