The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has vehemently denied allegations of incompetence and collusion with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) while defending his relationship with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.

In a recent interview with BBC Hausa, Damagum addressed mounting criticisms from within his party, dismissing claims that he is working as a puppet for the APC.

"May God be the judge between me and whoever slandered me, and may God judge us, if I am working for the APC," Damagum stated, specifically refuting allegations about meeting with President Bola Tinubu in England.

The PDP acting chairman emphasized his unwavering loyalty to the party since joining in 1999, highlighting that unlike some critics, he has never defected from the PDP. "I have a history since I joined the PDP in 1999. I have never defected," he affirmed.

Addressing his controversial relationship with Wike, who now serves in the APC government, Damagum acknowledged their association but denied any impropriety. "For all those who accuse me of having links with the Minister of FCT, I know him or have had links with him, and many of them have had links with him. My only fault here is that I did not allow them to do what they wanted with him," he explained.

Damagum expressed disappointment over recent defections from the PDP to the APC, describing these departures as losses for the party. However, he rejected accusations that he mistreated those who left.

While acknowledging internal divisions within the PDP, the acting chairman maintained that disagreements are inevitable in any political organization. Despite these challenges, he insisted that the party remains united in its core mission.

The leadership crisis within the PDP continues as the party navigates complex relationships with former members now in government positions and works to maintain its position as Nigeria's main opposition party.