Introduction to the PDP Convention
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed its readiness for its November 15-16 elective national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State. The party has warned members who are engaged in anti-party activities that they risk suspension or outright expulsion. National Publicity Secretary of the party, Debo Ologunagba, told journalists in Abuja that the party had completed all logistical, accommodation, and reception arrangements for the convention.
Convention Preparations
The convention will be the first in the party’s history to be held in the South-West. It will be preceded by the inauguration of the zoning committee on Thursday, August 14. The next National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, slated for August 25, will receive briefings from both the zoning and convention planning committees.
Talks with Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Peter Obi
Ologunagba, while responding to whether the PDP was in talks with former President Goodluck Jonathan or Labour Party’s Peter Obi, said only the two men could speak for themselves. This implies that the PDP is not in a position to disclose any information about potential discussions with these individuals.
Retrieving Mandates from Defectors
The party has also spoken on its efforts to retrieve mandates from defectors, particularly members of the National Assembly. Ologunagba said that the party had already directed its National Legal Adviser to take appropriate action. Some of the matters are already before the courts, and the party is taking a legal approach to resolve these issues.
Demand for Loyalty
Ologunagba emphasized that what the PDP demands is “absolute 100 per cent loyalty.” He urged aggrieved members to return, describing the PDP as “the only political party where they can achieve their goals and aspirations.” This call for loyalty is a clear indication that the party is seeking to strengthen its unity and cohesion.
South-South Zonal Congress Controversy
On the lingering South-South zonal congress controversy, Ologunagba explained that the tenure of the zonal committee expired in March, after which the NEC appointed a caretaker committee headed by Emma Ogidi in line with the constitution. This move is aimed at resolving the controversy and ensuring that the party’s activities in the region are conducted in an orderly manner.
Warning to PDP Members
Former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Bode George, has warned members against supporting opposition presidential candidates while holding positions in the party, calling the act “totally unacceptable.” This warning is a clear indication that the party will not tolerate any form of disloyalty or anti-party activities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the PDP is preparing for its national convention, and the party is taking steps to ensure that its members remain loyal and committed to its cause. The party’s efforts to retrieve mandates from defectors and its warning to members against supporting opposition candidates are all aimed at strengthening its unity and cohesion.
FAQs
Q: When is the PDP national convention scheduled to take place?
A: The PDP national convention is scheduled to take place on November 15-16.
Q: Where will the convention be held?
A: The convention will be held in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Q: What is the PDP’s stance on members who engage in anti-party activities?
A: The PDP has warned that members who engage in anti-party activities risk suspension or outright expulsion.
Q: Is the PDP in talks with former President Goodluck Jonathan or Peter Obi?
A: The PDP has not disclosed any information about potential discussions with these individuals, saying that only they can speak for themselves.
Q: What is the PDP’s demand from its members?
A: The PDP demands “absolute 100 per cent loyalty” from its members.
Source: guardian.ng
