Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has made a public appeal for former members, including Peter Obi, to return to the party.
During an appearance on the program “Nigeria Right Now” on AIT, which aired on May 30, Damagum addressed several issues.
One topic of interest was Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), who had recently visited some chieftains of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), including Atiku Abubakar. This spurred talks of a potential merger between the two parties.
When asked about Obi’s recent visits, Damagum responded evasively. “He (Obi) hasn’t visited me. I am not a poke-noser to be going about trying to know what the visits are all about,” he said.
Regarding the possibility of Obi rejoining the PDP, Damagum expressed openness. “Not only him.
Every other person that has been in this party, we want them back. The party, like I told you, is a brand that you cannot take away.
It will accommodate all of us. We are making steps in that direction. The true position is that the party has not been approached (for a merger).
Maybe individuals are talking about that, but as of today, we have not had any discussions as a party with any group. PDP has structures all over the country.
Look at our performance. PDP can stand alone and win this election. PDP is a solid party and they can come in and join us.
But I don’t think for now we are contemplating changing our name for any political party that would not add value to us.”
Damagum also addressed the ongoing crisis in the PDP and the calls for the suspension of some members over alleged anti-party activities.
He emphasized reconciliation over suspension. “After all, most of the agitators for this suspension, go back to their states.
What value have they added to the party?” he questioned. “You don’t just sit down because you are aggrieved with somebody or your personal hatred for somebody and you want the party to act along your own thinking.”
