Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Iyorchia Ayu, has withdrawn his lawsuit challenging his removal from office, paving the way for the appointment of a new party leader.
Ayu’s suspension and subsequent legal actions had left the PDP without a substantive National Chairman since 2023, when a court ruling in Makurdi, Benue State, prevented him from serving in the role. However, with Ayu’s withdrawal of the lawsuit, the party can now proceed with appointing his replacement.
The withdrawal notice, reads in part, “Take notice that the appellant herein intends and doth hereby wholly withdraw the appeal against the respondents filed on the 27th day of June 2023 vide Notice of Appeal dated the 26th day of June 2023.”
The withdrawal of appeal dated April 15, noted Ayu’s decision to pull out of the appeal against Engr. Terhide Utaan and the PDP, effectively removing legal barriers to selecting a new National Chairman.
Gabriel Suswam, a former Benue State Governor, emerges as a potential candidate to succeed Ayu, with the North Central Caucus reportedly advocating for his appointment to ensure the region maintains its representation in the party’s leadership.
Meanwhile, Amb. Umar Damagum, the Acting National Chairman, receives a vote of confidence from the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).
Speculation remains about his chances of retaining the position amidst discussions surrounding Ayu’s replacement.
The PDP is set to convene meetings to deliberate on the next steps in the leadership transition.
