Segun Sowunmi, a notable figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a former gubernatorial aspirant in Ogun State, has voiced his frustration over the apparent indifference of the party’s founding fathers towards the ongoing internal struggles that have beset the party. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Sowunmi highlighted the absence of intervention from former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan in resolving the conflicts that have plagued the party, especially in the lead-up to and aftermath of the 2023 elections.
The PDP has been embroiled in internal conflicts, with a recent call from some of its House of Representatives members for the resignation of the National Chairman, Umar Damagum. These lawmakers have criticized Damagum for his alleged inaction over political developments in Rivers State and accused him of siding with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This unrest within the party has been partly attributed to the “Wike problem,” referring to issues related to Nyesom Wike, the then Governor of Rivers State, which have continued to affect the party dynamics post-election.
Sowunmi lamented the prolonged nature of these internal wrangles, which, in his view, detracts from the legacy and the institutional integrity of the PDP, a party that has been a significant player in Nigeria’s democratic process for over two decades. He expressed disappointment in the founding members’ lack of action to mend the divisions, underscoring the importance of their role in preserving the party’s unity and effectiveness.
As the PDP navigates through these turbulent times, the call for unity and leadership from its most distinguished members becomes increasingly urgent. Sowunmi’s comments reflect a broader concern for the future of the party and the need for reconciliation and strong leadership to overcome its current challenges.
