Chief Edwin Clark, former Federal Commissioner for Information and prominent South South Leader, has urged Amb. Umar Ililya Damagum, the Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to contemplate stepping down from his position to avert the potential collapse of the party. Clark's call to action was delivered through a letter addressed directly to Damagum, emphasizing the urgent need for decisive measures to stabilize the party's leadership amid mounting concerns.
According to Vanguard, Clark drew attention to the perceived dominance exerted by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State over the affairs of the party. He raised alarm about Wike's substantial financial backing and influential role in candidate selection processes, suggesting that his influence extended even to appointments and decision-making within the Rivers State government. This purported level of control over the party's operations, according to Clark, poses significant challenges to its autonomy and integrity.
The veteran leader pointed specifically to Wike's support for Sim Fubara's gubernatorial candidacy and subsequent sway over the actions of the state government. Clark expressed reservations regarding undisclosed agreements between Wike and Fubara, which he believed were not necessarily aligned with the best interests of the people of Rivers State. He emphasized the importance of reevaluating the party's leadership dynamics to ensure greater transparency and accountability in decision-making processes.
He highlighted Wike's extensive financial support for PDP members in Rivers State, including providing financial assistance for contesting members at various levels of governance, ranging from the Governor to members of the House of Assembly and National Assembly. Despite acknowledging Wike's contributions in stabilizing the party financially during tumultuous times, Clark expressed concerns about the potential ramifications of his overbearing influence on the party's internal affairs.
Clark stressed Wike's significant role in championing Sim Fubara's candidacy for Governor of Rivers State, despite opposition from other party members. He noted Wike's assertive approach in ensuring Fubara's ascension to the gubernatorial seat, which ultimately resulted in Fubara assuming the position.
Hear him: “In order to be in firm and total control of all, you are also aware that Mr Wike bought forms for every contesting member of the party in Rivers State; right from the Governor to the members of House of Assembly including the members of National Assembly. No doubt, Mr Wike did his best in keeping the party financially when the party was sailing topsy-turvy. He also majorly championed the course of Sim Fubara to become Governor of Rivers State, while other colleagues seriously opposed him. Mr Wike was able to bulldoze his way through, and installed Sim Fubara as Governor."