Former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, has accused his former party of abandoning him during his most difficult period, asserting that it was only President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma who offered him support.
Metuh spoke at a thanksgiving service held to mark his 60th birthday, reflecting on his political journey and legal struggles.
He recalled that he served the PDP faithfully, even enduring a 10-month prison sentence on its behalf, yet the party did not stand by him during that ordeal.
“My trial was one of the worst experiences of my life,” Metuh said.
“The day I was convicted, I celebrated. During those difficult times, it was people like President Tinubu and Governor Uzodimma who showed me love and support.”
He recounted that while he faced legal challenges, President Tinubu, then the opposition leader, reached out through the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, to offer comfort and assistance.
“This was someone I often criticised politically, yet he extended a hand when I needed it most,” he added.
Metuh also reflected on his dedication to the PDP over the years.
He recalled turning down opportunities to benefit from the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), even when offered land in Ikoyi, Lagos, during the early years of Tinubu’s political influence.
“I was very dedicated to the PDP, and I could not betray my party at that time,” he said.
Despite the perceived betrayal, Metuh expressed his readiness to support the current administration.
“I am committed to helping the government at the centre and the President to deliver the dividends of democracy. I wish the PDP well, but I have moved on,” he stated.
Metuh praised credible political actors across parties, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and David Mark, for their contributions to democracy.
He also revealed that President Tinubu had invited him to join the APC several times, but he had declined, choosing instead to remain non-partisan until now.
“I now want to use my experience and voice to contribute positively to the polity. We need space for democracy to grow, a vibrant opposition, and people expressing their views freely,” Metuh said.
The thanksgiving event drew notable attendees, including Governor Uzodimma, former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, former Governors Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Sam Egwu (Ebonyi), Ikedi Ohakim (Imo), Emeka Ihedioha (Imo), Senator Victor Umeh, and Tony Nwoye.
