Engr. Conrad Terhide Utaan, a contender for the position of National Chairman in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has endorsed the party’s decision to zone the chairmanship to the North-Central region. Utaan described the move as both fair and essential for ensuring unity within the party.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Utaan stressed that it was only fitting for someone from the North-Central to complete the tenure of former National Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, who hails from the same zone. He noted that this approach aligns with the PDP Constitution, which mandates that any replacement for a removed official must come from the same area as the predecessor.
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“The PDP Constitution clearly supports this arrangement,” Utaan said. “I believe the decision is not only fair but necessary to uphold the integrity of our party’s leadership structure.”
However, Utaan acknowledged that the final decision rests with the party’s National Executive Council (NEC). He expressed confidence in the NEC’s judgment, pledging to abide by whatever decision is reached.
“As a loyal party member, I remain committed to supporting the NEC’s decision, whether they decide to retain the current Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagun, or appoint someone from the North-Central,” he added.
Utaan emphasized his belief that, should the NEC opt for a new chairman from the North-Central, he is the most qualified candidate for the role. He further argued that the chairmanship should not only remain within the North-Central but specifically in Benue State’s North-West (Zone ‘B’) Senatorial District, where Dr. Ayu is from.
“It would be unjust and unacceptable to the people of Zone ‘B’ if the position were to go elsewhere within the region,” Utaan cautioned, stressing the importance of upholding the principles behind the zoning decision.
As the PDP moves closer to making its decision, all eyes are on the NEC as they deliberate on who will assume the party’s top leadership position.