In a New Year message released on January 1, 2024, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) extended warm congratulations to Nigerians while emphasizing the critical need for citizens to defend the nation’s Constitutional Democracy against perceived authoritarian threats.
In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP called upon Nigerians to engage in prayer for the nation and to prepare themselves to employ lawful means to resist any encroachment on democratic principles, urging a collective effort to counteract tendencies that undermine the Constitution and rule of law.
The party emphasized the New Year as an opportunity for Nigerians to unite beyond ethnic, religious, and political divides, aligning themselves with the PDP in a joint effort to thwart anti-democratic forces. These forces, as asserted by the PDP, are allegedly attempting to compromise democratic institutions, diminish the National Assembly’s accountability role, and exert influence on key bodies such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary.
The PDP expressed concern over what it perceived as authoritarian actions and policies of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration. The party highlighted issues such as the alleged institutionalization of corruption, interference with democratic institutions, and the supposed weaponization of poverty as consistent with the APC’s agenda.
Specific incidents, including the use of campaign tunes in the National Assembly and alleged unconstitutional interference in the Rivers State House of Assembly, were cited as evidence of a move towards authoritarianism. The PDP also criticized the APC administration’s handling of economic matters, pointing to the collapse of the Naira, allegations of massive fund looting, and the skewing of the 2024 budget.
The PDP further lamented the departure of major multinational corporations, attributing their exit to what it deemed as counter-productive economic policies. The party accused the APC of causing serious social dislocation and economic uncertainty, leading to adverse effects on the nation’s well-being.
The PDP reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s democracy, urging the National Assembly to review and adjust the 2024 budget by redirecting funds from luxury items to sectors directly impacting citizens. The party called on leaders at all levels to intensify efforts in serving the public interest and appealed to the international community for support in ensuring the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria.
The party concluded with prayers for the nation and a wish for Nigerians to have a Happy New Year.
