PDP crisis deepens as Atiku shuns North East caucus meeting

DDM News

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was noticeably absent from the party’s North East Zonal Caucus meeting held in Bauchi State on Thursday.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that despite being a major stakeholder in the party, Atiku did not attend the gathering, nor did he send a representative or an apology.

His absence has fueled speculations about his stance on the ongoing crisis within the PDP.

While Atiku chose to stay away, other notable party figures who could not attend ensured they were represented at the meeting.

The event, however, recorded a strong presence of top PDP officials, including the three governors from Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa states.

Also in attendance were senators, House of Representatives members, and state assembly lawmakers from the North East region.

Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Ilya Damagun, emphasized the importance of the meeting, stating that it was a platform to deliberate on crucial matters affecting the party.

He noted that discussions focused on preparations for the upcoming zonal and national conventions.

Damagun urged party leaders to put aside their differences and work towards fortifying the party amidst its internal struggles.

“We all have our individual interests in politics, but ultimately, achieving those interests depends on having a strong and viable party structure,” he said.

“The PDP remains a formidable party with experienced politicians who have faced various challenges and know how to navigate them.”

Atiku’s absence has further raised concerns about his level of commitment to the party, particularly as the PDP continues to battle internal conflicts.

The former vice president has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with certain party decisions but has distanced himself from recent engagements, leading to questions about his political future.

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who also serves as the Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, expressed confidence in the party’s ability to overcome its current setbacks.

He stressed the need for reconciliation and structural adjustments to reduce internal friction and foster unity.

“To strengthen our party and avoid unnecessary disputes, we have agreed to swap party positions across states,” Mohammed stated.

“This means that positions currently occupied by members from Gombe will be reassigned to Bauchi, those in Borno will shift to Yobe, while Adamawa’s will go to Taraba, and vice versa.”

He further explained that micro-zoning arrangements would be handled by party leaders to ensure inclusivity.

“The three PDP governors in this zone, alongside the National Chairman from Yobe, Senator Hassan Dankwambo from Gombe, and Muhammad Imam from Borno, will work together to resolve disagreements and reintegrate those who have left the party,” he added.

Atiku’s continued absence from major party meetings has intensified discussions about his political direction and what it means for the PDP.

As the party struggles to rebuild following its loss in the 2023 elections, the silence of one of its most prominent figures remains a concern.

Many within the party are wondering whether Atiku is considering an alternative political move or merely waiting to see how the situation unfolds.

Amid these uncertainties, PDP leaders are making efforts to restore stability and retain key figures within the party, including Atiku.

The internal crisis that has plagued the PDP since the last election has resulted in defections and divisions, making reconciliation efforts even more urgent.

Governor Mohammed reaffirmed the party’s commitment to mending relationships and reintegrating members who felt sidelined.

“We will continue to push for reconciliation and ensure that those who once held key positions in the zone are valued,” he assured.

“Our goal is to strengthen the party and make it more competitive ahead of future elections.”

As the PDP navigates these internal challenges, the role Atiku chooses to play will be pivotal to its future.

Having contested for the presidency multiple times, his next political decision could significantly shape the party’s trajectory.

For now, PDP leadership remains focused on stabilizing the party, but Atiku’s absence from key meetings raises questions about his long-term commitment amidst the ongoing crisis.

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