The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders in Benue State have expressed their unwavering trust in the party’s leadership, urging unity and a focus on the collective interests of the party. Speaking during a press conference in Makurdi on Tuesday, Dr. Laha Dzever, a spokesperson for the stakeholders, emphasized the importance of closing ranks within the party and prioritizing its overall objectives over individual ambitions.
The meeting comes in the wake of a series of internal crises that have plagued the state’s opposition party, particularly following the recently concluded ward congress. The turmoil, which included the suspension and subsequent re-suspension of key figures such as the immediate past governor, Samuel Ortom, and his predecessor, Gabriel Suswam, had threatened to destabilize the party. However, the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC), under the leadership of Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, swiftly intervened by appointing a caretaker committee to manage the party’s affairs following the expiration of the state working committee’s tenure.
Addressing journalists, Dr. Dzever underscored the need for unity, stating, “We urge the Benue PDP family to close ranks and prioritize the party’s interests over those of individuals or groups within its ranks. The party’s canopy is big enough to meet its members’ aspirations for various electoral seats that may arise from time to time.”
Dr. Dzever further acknowledged the pivotal role played by the party’s leaders in maintaining stability and steering the party toward its goals. “None of these could have been achieved without the collective will, determination, and selflessness of the party’s college of leaders under the capable leadership of His Excellency Samuel Ortom, who is Benue PDP’s Leader, the Senate Minority Leader, Distinguished Senator Patrick Abba Moro, and His Excellency, Senator Gabriel Suswam,” she stated.
In a show of solidarity, the stakeholders unanimously passed a vote of confidence in the PDP’s National Working Committee, lauding the leadership of Ambassador Damagum. They also praised the efforts of Chief Samuel Ortom, who they credited with tirelessly working to reposition the party and strengthen its chances of reclaiming power in future elections.
Dr. Dzever also highlighted the commendable work of the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, noting his steadfast commitment to the growth and well-being of the PDP in Benue State and beyond. “We also pass a vote of confidence in the Leader of the Opposition in Nigeria, Senate Minority Leader, Distinguished Senator Patrick Abba Moro, for his steadfast commitment to the well-being and growth of PDP in Benue State and beyond, and for doing the party proud by the competent manner he is discharging his legislative and representative duties on the floor of the Red Chamber of Nigeria’s National Assembly,” she added.
The caretaker committee, which was installed to manage the party’s affairs during this tumultuous period, also received praise for its efforts. The stakeholders acknowledged the progress made under its leadership, expressing confidence in the committee’s ability to guide the party through its current challenges.
In a call for reconciliation, the stakeholders urged those who lost in the recent ward and local government congresses not to be discouraged, encouraging them to accept the outcomes in good faith. They also admonished the victors to be magnanimous in victory by reaching out to their competitors in a spirit of unity.
Furthermore, the stakeholders appealed to all party members who have filed grievances in court to withdraw their petitions and instead utilize the party’s internal conflict resolution mechanisms to address any issues. This appeal reflects a broader desire to maintain party cohesion and focus on the larger goal of regaining political power in the state and beyond.
