Kola Ologbondiyan, the immediate past National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has reiterated the North Central’s firm demand for constitutional adherence in the appointment of the party’s National Chairman. He emphasized that the zone remains resolute in its request to appoint a representative to complete the tenure of Senator Iyorchia Ayu, in accordance with the PDP Constitution.
In a recent meeting with PDP youth from the North Central region, Ologbondiyan urged them to persist in their quest, describing their demand as “constitutional, legitimate, and aligned with the democratic principles of equity, fair play, and justice.” He noted that the North Central’s claim is supported by various party organs and other regions, reinforcing its legitimacy under Section 47 (6) of the PDP Constitution, amended in 2017.
Ologbondiyan clarified that since the National Executive Committee (NEC) has not amended the relevant constitutional provisions, Acting National Chairman Ambassador Illyasu Umar Damagum cannot fully assume Senator Ayu’s role. “If there were any constitutional alteration, Ambassador Damagum would be the substantive National Chairman, not acting in the role,” he said, asserting that the office remains vacant and must be filled by a representative from the North Central.
He called on party leaders to uphold truth and justice, stressing that equity and fairness should take precedence over individual interests. Ologbondiyan also emphasized the PDP’s zoning arrangement, which allocates leadership positions among geopolitical zones, affirming that the North Central is entitled to the National Chairmanship.
In conclusion, Ologbondiyan urged North Central party members not to yield to pressure from “sit-tight politicians” trying to undermine the zone’s rightful claim within the party. He also stressed the importance of holding the NEC meeting scheduled for October 2024, reinforcing the North Central’s commitment to upholding its constitutional rights within the PDP.