Olayiwola Matthew
Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Umar Damagum, has said that he is not working with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to undermine his party.
Damagum, who also defended his relationship with former Rivers State Governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, stated this following criticism by some party members that he is working with Wike to destroy the PDP.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Damagun reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP, saying he was committed to the ideals of the Party.
“May God judge us, if I am working for the APC,” he said, referring to allegations that he met with President Bola Tinubu in England.
He emphasised his long-standing commitment to the PDP, stating, “I have a history, since I joined the PDP in 1999, I have never defected. Those who dislike me will have to find ways to either praise or criticise me to get what they want.”
Damagum also responded to critics of his relationship with Wike, acknowledging their association but denying any wrongdoing.
“For all those who accuse me of having links with the Minister of FCT, I know him or have had links with him, and many of them have had links with him. My only fault here is that I did not allow them to do what they wanted with him,” he said.
The PDP chairman expressed disappointment over the defection of some party members to the APC, describing it as a loss.
“We must be sad. Whenever you lose someone, you don’t feel happy, even if it’s just one person you’re grieving for,” and insisted that none of the defectors could claim they were wronged by the party.
Addressing internal divisions within the PDP, Damagum admitted that disagreements are inevitable in any political party but maintained that the PDP remains united.
“PDP is one. There are internal problems, because a party never lacks problems because its leaders are people, and people are in it, and everyone has their own interests,” he declared.
Damagum defended his leadership style, stating that he adheres to principles and refuses to yield to individuals.