The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appealed to its South East stakeholders to remain loyal amid tensions over the position of National Secretary. The party leadership urged unity, promising to address the concerns raised by the zone.
At a recent meeting in Enugu, the PDP South East Zonal Executive Committee expressed frustration and threatened to leave the party if their nominee for the National Secretary role was rejected. This stance has sparked discussions within the party’s hierarchy.
Speaking at the PDP National Secretariat on Tuesday, Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, pleaded with the South East leaders to reconsider their position. Representing Acting National Chairman Ambassador Umar Damagum, he acknowledged their dissatisfaction while urging them to remain part of the party’s fold.
“I know you are unhappy, and I understand your frustration,” Arapaja said. “But no family is without conflict. This party is your home, and together, we can find lasting solutions to these issues.”
Arapaja likened the stakeholders’ grievances to a landlord abandoning their house over minor issues. He emphasized that the PDP remains a people-oriented platform where dialogue can resolve differences and strengthen unity.
He assured the delegation that the National Working Committee (NWC) would deliberate on their resolution and present it at the next National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. “We will give this matter the attention it deserves and work towards a fair outcome,” Arapaja promised.
The South East delegation, led by Senate Minority Whip Senator Osita Ngwu, presented a resolution unanimously nominating Sunday Ude-Okoye, a former PDP National Youth Leader, for the National Secretary position. This step followed directives from the national leadership for the zone to propose a candidate.
Ngwu highlighted the South East’s dedication to the PDP over the years, noting their role in delivering governors, lawmakers, and other electoral victories. He stressed that their resolution aimed to restore unity and strengthen the party ahead of future elections.
“The South East has always been the backbone of this party,” Ngwu stated. “Our resolution is rooted in established party procedures, and we believe it will help reposition the PDP for greater success.”
He concluded by urging the party leadership to act in the interest of fairness and unity. “We are appealing to your conscience. Let this decision inspire confidence and motivate members to work together for the PDP’s recovery and growth,” Ngwu said.
