The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a stern warning to its members who are reportedly showing interest in joining a newly emerging political coalition.
The party says it is closely monitoring the situation and will not hesitate to act when necessary.
Speaking to journalists after a meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) held at the PDP headquarters on Wednesday, the party’s acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, emphasized loyalty and unity within the PDP.
“Our leaders have already come together to give us this leadership. This is what you can see in this NWC,” Damagum said.
“And I keep reiterating this is the only party in the country that has lasted this long. We have mastered the act of conflict resolution. We know our problems and we solve it within ourselves.”
He noted that the party has remained a political home to many, urging members not to be swayed by alliances outside the PDP.
“To those that are contemplating, they should know that there is no place and there’s nowhere that will be as accommodating as our party. But if they feel otherwise, I will wish them good luck. But I know they will run coming back,” he stated.
Damagum also delivered a caution to those who may be undermining the party’s image in public or flirting with other political parties.
“I want to re-emphasize that if you are a member of the People’s Democratic Party, we are drawing a line for those that go to demarket the party. We will watch them and take appropriate actions at the right time,” he warned.
“If you believe in this party, you should be an ambassador that protects the fortunes that this party has given to the citizens of this country when it was there.”
Addressing internal concerns, the acting chairman assured party faithful that the PDP was stable and ready for the months ahead.
He confirmed that a scheduled National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting will hold as planned.
“We remain united despite all the challenges. We have sat down to discuss all thorny issues and trash it out today,” he said.
“We’ve agreed that we have already, as proposed by the last NEC, that the NEC meeting scheduled for 23rd, 24th and 25th will still hold. To our members, I want to bring good tidings, that your party is intact.”
In addition to internal matters, Damagum turned his attention to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of political interference and attempting to lure PDP members.
“To APC, I want to send a message, that you can continue to harass, and buy our members. But the 2027 election is between Nigerians and APC. So, it is better to start now and correct your ways,” he declared.
He criticized the APC’s governance, particularly regarding economic hardship and national insecurity.
“Hunger, insecurity, arbitrary extortion of Nigerians is more than overwhelming. So, we are in a democratic setting. We should hear the yearning of people.”
“Like I said earlier, we are not conquered. We are law-abiding citizens. We deserve to be heard. For democracy to thrive people must say their minds. People should be listened to and policies should be people-oriented. It’s not for the few,” Damagum added.
