Elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark has issued a stern call for the acting national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Illiya Damagum, to step down from his position, citing concerns over the party's stability under his leadership. In an open letter dated April 24, 2024, Clark expressed dismay over what he termed as Damagum's failure to assert the party's independence and address internal crises effectively.
Chief Edwin Clark
Clark pointedly criticized Damagum for allegedly aligning with the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and neglecting the interests of the party. He accused Damagum of allowing Wike to exert undue influence over the party's affairs, leading to a perceived weakness within the party's decision-making structures.
The elder statesman highlighted the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, including the defection of PDP lawmakers and the controversy surrounding the caretaker committee list. He lamented Damagum's purported inaction in addressing these issues, suggesting that Damagum's leadership was compromised by his allegiance to Wike.
Clark's letter underscored broader concerns within the PDP regarding the erosion of party autonomy and the alleged dominance of Wike's interests within the party's hierarchy. He called on Damagum to either "sit up" and address these concerns or resign to prevent further deterioration of the party's fortunes. According to LEADERSHIP News reports, Clark said, “It is alleged in some quarters that Mr. Wike is very instrumental to your being appointed the Acting National Chairman, and you, therefore recognise him as your “boss”.
The letter also questioned the judiciary's intervention in the party's internal affairs, citing a recent court order barring the PDP NWC from reviewing the Rivers State Caretaker Committee list. He urges party members to challenge this order and asserts that the party leadership's failure to address issues in Rivers State is indicative of external control rather than genuine concern for the party's well-being. He also urged party members to reaffirm their commitment to upholding the party's integrity and autonomy.