In a significant show of solidarity, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the North East Zone has thrown its support behind Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum as the Acting National Chairman of the party. The endorsement came from PDP representatives in Adamawa, Taraba, Gombe, Borno, and Yobe states.

Speaking on behalf of the five states, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State expressed confidence in Damagum’s leadership, highlighting the progress made since he assumed office. Governor Fintiri referenced a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, which placed a restraining order on any efforts to replace Damagum, stating that he should be allowed to complete the tenure of former Chairman Dr. Iyorchia Ayu unless otherwise decided by the court.

The governor commended Damagum for his efforts in restoring public trust in the party, urging all members to respect the court’s decision in the interest of both the party and democracy.

During his address, Fintiri described the performance of the PDP in the North East during the 2023 elections as unprecedented, asserting that the region now deserves the position of National Chairman more than any other section of the North.

The legal backdrop to this political development involves a Federal High Court in Abuja issuing a restraining order preventing the PDP’s National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and National Executive Committee, along with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), from nominating or appointing any individual other than Ambassador Damagum as chairman, ensuring his leadership remains in place until further notice.

This show of support further strengthens Damagum’s position within the party, as members across the North East region rally behind his continued leadership.