Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, factional chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT), has attributed the ongoing turmoil in the party to disregard for the constitution and personal greed.
He stated that he and his faction are committed to resolving the persistent issues affecting the party.
During a Monday interview with Arise News, Ohuabunwa said that previous PDP leaders have lost their moral direction, but his faction is determined to restore and reconcile the party.
He explained, “We are in this situation because of disobedience to our own constitution. Had we followed our rules, we wouldn’t be here today. Sadly, we have refused to learn from our mistakes.”
PDP Repeating Past Mistakes
Further commenting, the BoT chairman told Naija News that the PDP continues to act as though it remains the ruling party, failing to acknowledge errors or implement corrective measures.
Ohuabunwa argued that every crisis in the PDP has stemmed from presidential ambitions, which often prioritize personal gain over party interest.
He added, “Those of us loyal to the PDP want Nigerians to understand what truly happened. The party governed for 16 years, and after losing in 2015, we set up the Ekweremadu Committee to investigate our failures. Its recommendations were never implemented. Since then, similar mistakes repeated in 2019 and 2023.”
He continued, “Historically, every internal dispute has centered on who wants to be president. Members leave and return expecting to claim leadership positions immediately, disregarding party rules. Our constitution clearly states that returning members start afresh without seniority, yet many ignore this, creating major conflicts.”
Ohuabunwa also criticized the handling of succession after former National Chairman Dr Iyorchia Ayu stepped down, saying it violated the party’s zoning principles.
He explained, “When Ayu left, the constitution mandated that the North Central produce his replacement. Ambassador Damagum, the Deputy National Chairman (North), served temporarily, but no permanent replacement was appointed. Instead, key officers like the National Secretary, National Organising Secretary, and Legal Adviser were suspended. Removing these pillars destabilizes the party.”
Loyalty Amid Turmoil
Ohuabunwa affirmed his steadfast loyalty to the PDP, highlighting that unlike others who defect when frustrated, he has remained committed.
He said, “I am a founding member of the PDP and have never left, not even for a day. Even when my home state, Abia, was under another party, I stayed. Many of us have dedicated time and resources to uphold this party, while others prioritize only themselves.”
