Amidst rising internal tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Conference of National Ex-Officio members has issued a warning that only the convocation of an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, scheduled for October 24, 2024, can prevent a looming crisis in the party.
The group expressed deep concern over what they termed an “escalating crisis” among the party’s top leadership, warning that inaction could have dire consequences for the party’s stability. They have pledged their support for the peace efforts led by the PDP Governors Forum, headed by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.
In a statement signed by several ex-officio members, including Dr. Yunana Ilya (Northcentral), Dr. Nicholas Msheliza (Northeast), Chief Madumere Chinemerem (Southeast), Chief Patrick Agbe (South-South), Chief Faboyede Clement (Southwest), and Alhaji Ibrahim Alhaji (Northwest), the group highlighted what they described as a “dangerous turn of events” threatening the party’s foundation.
They urged party leadership to ensure that the NEC meeting takes place, allowing aggrieved members an opportunity to voice their concerns and seek resolutions. The statement emphasized that the PDP Constitution mandates NEC meetings at least once every quarter, criticizing the party for failing to adhere to this requirement.
The ex-officio members noted, “Our Party’s Constitution is explicit on the importance of NEC in its provision that it shall hold at least once every quarter, failing which two-thirds of members may exercise its power in summoning an emergency NEC meeting. It is regrettable that our party has not adhered to the provisions of its own constitution, which would have nipped in the bud many unresolved issues.”
As the situation develops, the ex-officio members remain steadfast in their belief that addressing the underlying issues within the party is essential for its resurgence and popularity.