The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has told the National Convention Zoning Committee that its decision will shape the party’s ability to serve Nigerians, win elections and defend the democratic values it represents.
The PDP acting national chairman, Umar Damagum, stated this at the inauguration of the National Convention Zoning Committee, led by the Bayelsa State governor, Senator Douye Diri.
The zoning committee is expected to recommend which zone the party’s next national chairman will come from which in turn should show where the party’s presidential ticket will be zoned to.
The committee is expected to make its recommendation ahead of the party’s August 25 National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
Damagum said the committee is the engine room that would lay the political foundation for the leadership of the PDP over the next four years.
He said the committee’s decisions, “will shape the party’s ability to serve Nigerians, win elections, and defend the democratic values we represent.”
The acting chairman noted that the party has remained standing despite changes in leadership and the departure of members who chose a different path.
“That is why the next National Working Committee must not only be representative, it should be visionary, courageous, and proactive. We need leaders of integrity, creativity, and capacity. We must place individuals who inspire confidence, mobilise effectively, and speak to the hopes of Nigerians.
“Our zoning process must reflect fairness, equity, and strategic thinking, as well as strengthen our unity, reward loyalty, and position us for electoral victory. I trust that the Zoning Committee will approach its task with wisdom, foresight, and a full understanding of the bigger picture: PDP over anyone, and PDP above any personal interest,”Damagum noted.
He further said deputies are just as important as the principals, stating that; “I speak from experience. I ran for and won the position of National Deputy Chairman (North). Yet, due to political circumstances, I was thrust into the role of leading our great party nationally.
“It was a drastic and unexpected responsibility; one that demanded resilience, clarity, and decisive leadership. Because I was prepared, because I understood the weight of service, I was able to rise to the challenge and stand firm in the storm,” he said.
On his part, chairman of PDP Governors Forum, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, said the party has navigated so many traps and covered a long distance worth celebrating with humility and focus.
He pledged the support of the governors to the National Working Committee in repositioning the party “for Nigerians to have a credible alternative with experience and the human capital and the foresight that we are known for.”
The Bauchi governor said all the legacies and landmarks of democratic dividends were provided by PDP.
“I believe Nigerians are aware that whatever you see, that you are tangible in terms of measurable achievements, were done by PDP. The many years of APC administration has left woes and melancholy and hunger and anger.
We cannot afford that. God has a way of teaching us. Maybe the lull over the loss that we have suffered is to make us know our limitations and inadequacies so that we can do better.
“I assure you, the governors are behind this project of making Nigeria one and unified and bringing a leadership recruitment that will make Nigeria happy, irrespective of their personal interests. I’m happy with my colleagues. Despite all their busy schedule, they have come here to show you that they are with you,” he said.
On his part, chairman of the committee, Governor Diri thanked the party for finding him and members of the panel worthy to carry out that all important assignment.
“On behalf of the members of the committee, I stand to accept this huge responsibility that has been bestowed upon us. We will be consultative, we will partner, and we will be inclusive in ensuring that we arrive at a fair and just zoning formula for our party,” he said.
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