In the aftermath of an emergency meeting convened on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a robust reassurance to its members, critical stakeholders, and supporters regarding the political developments in Rivers State. The NWC emphasized that its interventions in the state are yielding positive outcomes, asserting the party’s unity and stronghold in Rivers State and across the nation despite facing challenges.
In a statement, National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba said Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum, the Acting Chairman of the NWC, continues to provide unwavering and effective leadership, ensuring the stability, growth, and adept management of the party’s interests and corporate integrity. The committee is steadfast in the face of efforts by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to diminish opposition and establish a One-Party State in the country.
The NWC expressed serious concern over the imprudent conduct, activities, and unguarded statements emanating from certain party leaders. These leaders, motivated by self-interest, have been criticized for disparaging critical party organs, inciting discord among members, and tarnishing the party’s image in the public eye.
The NWC specifically addressed a public statement attributed to the former Governor of Jigawa State, His Excellency Sule Lamido, condemning it as detrimental to the party’s unity and objectives. The committee revealed disturbing reports suggesting that such individuals are being recruited by the APC administration to disrupt the cohesion within the PDP, hindering its effective opposition role for the sustenance of democracy and the well-being of Nigerians.
The NWC lamented that these individuals, who have greatly benefited from the PDP, are now engaging in actions inconsistent with the opportunities afforded to them by the party in the past. Some of the challenges faced by the party, both presently and historically, are attributed to the actions and utterances of these individuals, who are accused of brazenly betraying the party for their personal gain.
The committee called on these leaders to show appreciation and commitment to the party and the nation by contributing constructive suggestions that align with the interests of the party and Nigerians in terms of good governance. The NWC emphasized that their current actions violate the provisions of the PDP Constitution, especially Sections 57, 58, and 59.
In strong terms, the NWC cautioned such leaders to be mindful of their actions, utterances, and conduct, reminding them of the constitutional provisions they are violating. The committee asserted its commitment to protecting the party’s integrity and announced its readiness to take appropriate disciplinary or punitive actions against such individuals, in line with the provisions of the PDP Constitution.
The NWC urged all members to remain united, vigilant, and focused in resisting the efforts of the APC and its agents to destabilize the party and impose a One-Party system on the nation. The committee underscored the crucial role of the PDP in guiding the nation towards sustaining democracy and preventing it from sliding into totalitarianism.
