The Coalition of Opposition Lawmakers in the House of Representatives has pledged its support to Mohamed Yayari, the factional acting national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party.

The coalition made the pledge in a statement on Monday, by its spokesperson, Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP-Imo).

A faction of the National Working Committee led by the acting national chairman, Umar Damagum, suspended the legal adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade and the publicity secretary, Debo Ologunagba, for alleged anti-party activities.

In a swift reaction, another faction of the NWC, regarded as the integrity group, also announced the suspension of Damagum and announced the appointment of Mr Yayari as his immediate replacement.

Mr Ugochinyere said the new acting chair had shown his understanding of the urgency to reposition the party for greater electoral fortunes ahead of the 2027 election.

According to him, the coalition understands the urgent desire of members of the hitherto biggest political party in Africa, to sanitise the system, restore internal democracy, and restore peace and cohesion in the party.

Mr Ugochinyere, who represents Ideato North and South federal constituency of Imo, said that the acting chairman has rekindled hope among the PDP family.

“This coalition of lawmakers in the house will support the new acting leadership and its resolve to ensure a rapid reform of our party,” he said.

Justice Peter Lifu of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court on Friday restrained PDP’s NEC and board of trustees from removing Mr Damagun as the acting chairman.

The court ordered that no person other than Mr Damagun be recognised as PDP national chairperson until the party’s national convention is scheduled for December 2025.

The judge issued the order against PDP NEC, BoT and others while delivering judgment in a suit instituted against them by Umar El-Gash Maina.

The judge held that in line with Articles 42, 47 and 67 of PDP, national officers can be elected only at the party’s National Convention.

(NAN)