by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Former Governor of Plateau State-cum former Senator representing Plateau North, Senator Jonah David Jang, who is also one of the core founding fathers of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the country, has reaffirmed that the party remains a fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s democracy, and not what is now being witnessed as “matching towards a one-party State” through the undemocratic tool of defection spree, which is anti-democratic, and should be resisted as such by true democrats.
According to him, the PDP is the only surviving organic political party, since 1998, and it possesses the historical resilience and institutional strength required to overcome its current challenges, describing the party as more than a political platform but an indispensable political institution.
A communiqué to this effect was issued at the end of their Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting at the PDP Secretariat in Jos.
The leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Plateau State Chapter, after extensive and fruitful deliberations with key stakeholders at different levels – this include all Local Government Areas (LGAs) Party Chairmen, and Board of Trustees (BOT) Members in the persons of Sen. Da (Dr.) Jonah David Jang; Amb. Bagudu Mutle Hirse, and Professor, Gabriel Ganyir Lombin, among others.
According to him, the fact that the party has been a critical catalyst and contributor to Nigeria’s Democracy since 1999, where it was also, noted that many individuals have benefited from the party giving them the opportunity to serve and still serving at various levels of governance.
Sen. Jang urged the party’s leadership across board to place people-cantered interest above personal considerations, stressing that strong political parties are essential for any democratic sustenance and stability.
Both Prof. Lombin and Amb. Hirse counted themselves honoured and worthy to be considered as BOT members; they also reaffirmed that they will continue to align themselves with the vision and mission of the party.
They equally expressed a deep satisfaction that Plateau State is a traditional PDP political enclave; it remains alive, strong, and resilient against all odds, contrary to speculations in some sections of the media on the prevailing political defection facing the party.
Speaking earlier, Party Chairman in the State, Hon. (Chief) Raymond Dabo, thanked the various stakeholders for availing themselves for the epoch making engagement, especially the BOT Members, ably led by the leader of the party on the Plateau, in the person of Distinguished Senator Jang, for their fatherly counsel and unwavering loyalty to the Party.
He assured all dignitaries during the engagement that the current leadership in the state is committed to a comprehensive rebranding aimed at rebuilding and strengthening the party being the most viable platform for a balanced and prosperous Plateau, and, hereby issues the following resolutions:
The Stakeholders Engagement observed the need for greater internal unity and cohesion within the party structure, and the importance of improving communication channels between party leadership and grassroots members.
Also observed the necessity of a robust engagement of women, youths, and the marginalized groups such people living with special needs in decision-making processes.
Resolutions:
While based on the observations and productive discussions, participants at the various level of the engagement arrived at the following points:
Unity and Reconciliation: A high-level reconciliation drive should be sustained to address internal grievances and foster a spirit of unity and common purpose among all members.
Enhanced Communication: The party will implement a comprehensive internal communication strategy to ensure all members and stakeholders are informed and engaged in party activities.
Also Accountability: The party leadership commits to implementing measures that guarantee leadership accountability, with regular reports provided to relevant party organs.
Inclusive Engagement: Affirmative actions will be taken to ensure the active participation and representation of women, youths, and other marginalized groups in all party structures and decision-making bodies.
Implementation Plan: A clear plan of action, including timelines and assigned responsibilities, has been developed to guide the implementation of these resolutions.
While the Party (PDP), remains committed to overcoming what is considered as temporary challenges through an inclusive, transparent, and collaborative approach, in the best interest of the party and the State.
The party expresses its profound gratitude to all stakeholders for their participation and commitment to the party’s success.