In a significant political development, former Senate President David Mark is facing increasing calls to assume the role of national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP.
According to Leadership Newspaper, two prominent figures, both former military generals—one a past president and the other a former Minister of Defense—are advocating for Mark to take on this position to help stabilize the party ahead of its upcoming national convention.
A party insider revealed that there is a strong push for Mark to step in and restore order within the PDP until a new convention can be held. Although Mark has not publicly expressed interest in the role, he comes from the North Central Zone, where there have been growing demands for the acting national chairman, Amb. Illiya Damagum, to step aside in favor of a permanent replacement for Senator Iyorchia Ayu.
A source close to Mark noted that while he is aware of the calls for his leadership, he is wary of the legal complexities surrounding the party’s current leadership dispute. The insider added that efforts to persuade Mark are gaining momentum, as he is particularly concerned about the existing divisions within the PDP.
“While he is willing to step in and help stabilize the party, he does not want to preside over a fractured organization,” the source stated. Another party official confirmed that several stakeholders have approached Mark, viewing him as a strong candidate capable of uniting the party amidst its internal conflicts.
The ongoing rift between factions loyal to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and current Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has further exacerbated divisions within the party, which were recently highlighted in discussions within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).