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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the judiciary to act transparently and ensure a smooth and credible national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State. In a statement released by its Convention Media and Publicity Sub-Committee and made available to journalists in Bauchi, the PDP called on relevant institutions to display patriotism and professionalism before, during, and after the convention to guarantee a peaceful and credible exercise. The party expressed concern over what it described as growing fears among its supporters that the All Progressives Congress (APC) might attempt to use judicial means to delay or stop the convention. While reaffirming confidence in the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, the PDP said it would continue to observe the Commission’s actions throughout the electoral process. “These fears are not unfounded. Going by the APC’s antecedents, the possibility of using inter- and intra-party destructive elements to thwart the PDP’s November convention cannot be ruled out,” the statement read. The PDP added that, “Covertly and overtly, these elements, operating within and outside the PDP, are willing to go to any extent to serve the selfish interests of their masters in the APC. They must be reminded that nemesis will catch up with them sooner than later.” The Sub-Committee alleged that such attempts were part of a broader plan to influence the 2027 general elections and create a one-party state. It also raised concerns about possible misuse of the police and other security agencies to disrupt or block the gathering of its members during the convention. “Given the vulnerability of the police to manipulation by those in power, there are genuine fears that they could be used to disperse or delay the forthcoming political assembly,” the statement alleged. “In an ideal democracy such as Nigeria’s, opposition remains a vital force that checks the excesses of the ruling party and provides solutions. Where opposition is suppressed, the voices of the people are stifled,” it further stated. Appealing for unity among members, the Sub-Committee urged the party faithful to remain focused and committed to protecting the PDP’s legacy. “To PDP faithful, this is the time to unite more than ever before. Nothing should be allowed to derail the forthcoming national convention. We have laboured and nurtured Nigerian democracy to its present stage,” it stated. The PDP reiterated that, “In an ideal democratic setting, and particularly the type of democracy being practiced in Nigeria, opposition is an invigorating tonic that not only checkmates excesses of the ruling party but also proffers solutions to problems. Where the opposition is being strangulated, it can be said that the voices of the people are being stifled.” It further claimed that, “In Nigeria today, it is an open secret that the ruling APC is bent on using every tool at its disposal, including the misuse of key democratic institutions such as the judiciary, INEC, the police, and other law enforcement agencies, to maintain its grip on power.” The PDP said it was not surprised by fears that the ruling party might attempt to use the judiciary to obstruct or indefinitely postpone its upcoming convention. “All these machinations are surely in preparation for the grand electoral manipulation of the 2027 general elections and the enthronement of a one-party democracy that would pave the way towards dictatorship,” it added. The party also appealed to state institutions to “exhibit a high sense of patriotism” and carry out their responsibilities in the best interest of Nigeria. “They must remember that they will be called to account for their deeds here or hereafter. Their selfish actions or inactions are capable of truncating the nation’s democratic evolution and could lead to chaos and national disaster,” it stated. “Above all, they must discharge their official responsibilities with the fear of their creator and in the best interest of Nigeria and Nigerians.” The Sub-Committee also called on PDP members to remain united and steadfast, saying, “Nothing should be allowed to injure the forthcoming national convention, bearing in mind that we have fought hard and worked diligently to nurture Nigerian democracy to its present stage.” It warned against “the antics of fifth columnists and anti-democratic agents” and reminded members that the PDP remains the only truly national party with a record of visionary leadership. According to the Sub-Committee, “The Peoples Government run by President Goodluck Jonathan attests to PDP’s quality of leadership, an era Nigerians still yearn to see restored. Those were times of affordability, quality life, and inclusive governance.” It concluded by assuring members that the party leadership was working to resist all forms of sabotage. “The leadership and caucus of the party are working round the clock to withstand all possible elements of sabotage, whether from state institutions or hired individuals. Friendly civil society organizations and the international community are being engaged to help preserve and protect our democratic culture,” it stated. ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
