A bird’s eye view of the PDP

Ordinarily, it is in tune with the dynamism of our great party to witness continuous contributions to the quest for greater success in providing leadership and delivering the dividends of democracy. This process is facilitated by the cordial but frank exchange of views and perspectives among members and the systematic canvassing of such perspectives through […]

Ordinarily, it is in tune with the dynamism of our great party to witness continuous contributions to the quest for greater success in providing leadership and delivering the dividends of democracy. This process is facilitated by the cordial but frank exchange of views and perspectives among members and the systematic canvassing of such perspectives through established procedures and guidelines of the party leading to popular acceptance by generality of party members and the decision taking machinery. Until recently this has been the practice and it accounts for the admirable tranquillity and common focus in the Nasarawa State branch of the party. The unfortunate difference now is that the established procedures are being by-passed and unconventional methods are being used for the normal expression of views. This can only lead to events inimical to the overall interest of the party and its members.

Basically, one can identify the main issues being raised by members of the party who tag themselves “concerned”: alleged lack of democracy, departure from party guidelines, non-performance of party exco leading to election failure, no level playing ground for state congress, subjugation of party exco to the executive arm of government and not carrying majority of members along in party affairs. It is my considered opinion whether these issues are genuine or not, they are not beyond what can be addressed and resolved within the membership and guidelines of the party in the usual “family affair” style which has been working not only in Nasarawa State but indeed all through the PDP structures. Certainly we cannot say that such complaints are only applicable in Nasarawa State branch because records show that what is happening here is child’s play compared to other state chapters.

One issue that must be frankly assessed is the performance of the exco. They cannot be hanged on the altar of the results of the 2011 elections because apart from the governorship, PDP performed creditably and the evidence of malpractices, especially during the governorship elections, was buttressed by the fact of the split decision of the tribunal judges. This is apart from the treachery of those whose aborted personal ambitions consumed their allegiance to the party as if they know no God. Moreover, the average PDP supporter in the state actually appreciates the relatively crises-free conduct of party affairs under the watch of the party exco which could not have been achieved without the confidence and support of the generality of party supporters. Similarly, I don’t think it is wrong for there to be a good working relationship between the party exco and the executive arm of government particularly when the governor is defacto leader of the party in the state and the party must maintain a symbiotic relationship with the government to enhance manifesto implementation.

Ultimately, the whole thing boils down to sincere solidarity with the party by which even if there are genuine grudges these should be raised and resolved within the party machinery. I cannot see any harm if those who even demand a new “vision and mission” go about it in a consensus-building manner that seeks the support of the party membership instead of targeting the leadership with recrimination and resorting to  factions which undermines the party as a whole. Those whose concern is just to discredit leadership of the party are usually more interested in occupying the same leadership positions than in the much-touted “reform and change” of the party. No wonder the generality of the membership of Nasarawa State PDP seem to be disconnected from the press and petition activities of the “concerned”.

As a common member of the party, one has no option but to appeal to the elders, elites and other major stakeholders of the party in Nasarawa State to rally round the party at all times and to maintain the family approach to resolving issues in contention that has served the party well so far. Adherence to party guidelines and procedures remains the best “level playing ground” for all members to pursue and realize their aspirations within the party. Fortunately, the process leading to the congress is constantly under the objective oversight of the national body which is definitely not subordinate to the state exco. We need to consolidate for the task of regaining our party’s popular entrenchment and political leadership of our beloved Nasarawa State.

Ahmadu is of the Keffi branch of the PDP