October 15, (THEWILL) — The Northern Support Group of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused some members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) of attempting to sabotage preparations for the forthcoming National Convention of the party.
The group Coordinator, Hon Yusuf Dingyadi, in a statement issued on Wednesday, expressed concern over what it described as “a deliberate effort to frustrate the process”, blaming certain top party officials for backing ongoing legal actions aimed at derailing the exercise.
The group specifically mentioned the National Secretary, National Legal Adviser, and National Organising Secretary as allegedly conniving to scuttle arrangements for the convention. It said their actions run contrary to the principles of internal democracy and collective responsibility enshrined in the PDP constitution.
“Their support of the unnecessary litigation at the Federal High Court, Abuja, is another clear indication of the plan by Nyesom Wike and his loyalists to destroy what remains of the party’s strength through incessant court actions and internal sabotage”, the statement read in part.
The group described the National Convention as the highest decision-making organ of the party and a vital opportunity to rebuild trust, unity, and electoral strength.
“Dragging the party’s internal arrangements to court by some so-called party leaders in Abia and Imo states, with the backing of certain NWC members, is not only a disservice to the PDP, but also a betrayal of the yearnings of millions of members and supporters across Nigeria who desire a strong and united opposition capable of defending democracy”, the group said.
While urging restraint among stakeholders, the group reaffirmed its confidence in the leadership of the National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, and the convention planning committee, expressing optimism that the convention in Ibadan would be transparent and inclusive.
The statement also cautioned former PDP National Youth Leader, Hon. Udeh Okoye, against what it called “lies and propaganda” against the party’s leadership following his reported defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“It will be in the best interest of peace for Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu, Hon. Okoye, and others who have chosen to abandon the PDP to focus on their new political platforms instead of generating unnecessary noise and tension against the party.”
The group called on all genuine party members to rise above personal interests and work together for the survival of the PDP and the protection of Nigeria’s democracy.
“Our party will emerge stronger and more united after the Ibadan Convention, without fear or intimidation”, the statement concluded.
Tunde Omolehin is an award-winning Journalist with prose in investigative and storytelling that is connecting the dots between the under-reported communities and policymakers to ensure good governance and accountability.
