January 30, 2013

 PRESS STATEMENT 

We are behind Tukur - PDP NWC Says no squabbles with Jonathan, governors 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reiterated that there is no division in its leadership even as members of the National Working Committee (NWC) have stressed that they are solidly behind the National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur. 

In the same vein, the leadership of the party said it totally supports the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan adding that it has no problem at all with PDP State Governors contrary to speculations in some national dailies. 

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh in a statement yesterday said the Party’s National Working Committee is united under Tukur’s leadership and has been working in one accord to ensure good governance in the country. 

“There is no division in the leadership of our party. We are solidly behind our National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and we are focused on ensuring good governance in the country.  

“Some people are not just happy that we are working together, so they come out with all sorts of speculations to see that they cause disaffection in our party but I want to assure that we will not be distracted in our focus to ensure that we continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people,” Metuh said.  

He said the party leadership is working together with President Jonathan to ensure the delivery of his transformation agenda which is aimed at ensuring rapid development in all sectors of the economy for the benefit of all. 

January 29, 2013

Press Statement 

PDP Expresses Happiness over Imoke’s Recovery 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed happiness on the remarkable recovery of Cross River state Governor Liyel Imoke who has been out of the country for medical treatment. 

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh in a statement yesterday said the party received the news of the governor’s recovery with great joy adding that he is expected back to his duties soon. 

“We have just received news of the remarkable recovery of the Governor of Cross Rivers state, Governor Liyel Imoke and we are very happy. We expect that he will be back to his office very soon to continue the good works he has been doing in his state,” he said. 

Metuh commended the leadership of the party in Cross River, including the Acting Governor, party chairmen, Speaker of the Houses of Assembly, state caucus members, members of the National Assembly from the state as well as government appointees in the state for holding forth and ensuring smooth running of government affairs in the absence of the governor. 

He said the fact that government activities have been going on smoothly in the state shows that that PDP government has direction and focus in line with the manifesto of the party to ensure the welfare of the people at all times.

January 28, 2013

 Press Statement 

Chime, Suntai: PDP commends Enugu, Taraba party officials 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has commended the leadership of the party in Enugu and Taraba states including the Acting Governors, party chairmen, Speakers of the Houses of Assembly, state caucus members, members of the National Assembly from the states as well as government appointees in the states for holding forth and ensuring smooth running of government affairs in the absence of their governors. 

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh in a statement yesterday said the fact that government activities have been going on smoothly in these states shows that that PDP governments have direction and focus in line with the manifesto of the party to ensure the welfare of the people at all times.  

“We want to commend our party leadership and government officials in Enugu and Taraba states; the Acting Governors, the Speakers of the Houses of Assembly and other state caucus members and government appointees in these states for holding forth in the absence of Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu state and Governor Danbaba Suntai of Taraba state, who are out of the country for medical attention. 

“The fact that government activities are going on smoothly without altercations shows that the PDP governments in these states and indeed across the country have direction and focus, which is to ensure the welfare of the people in line with our manifesto”, Metuh said.

January 25, 2013

PRESS STATEMENT 

 Jonathan is Right on Security, Power - PDP  

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown it's weight behind President Goodluck Jonathan for his forthrightness on national issues especially the Boko Haram insurgency in his interview with CNN on Wednesday. 

The party, in a statement by it's National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh said the President was absolutely right when he declared that the Boko Haram phenomenon was not a product of misrule or poverty but a local terror group. 

It also agreed with the President that there has been tremendous improvement in power supply in the country under the current dispensation. 

Dismissing the insinuation that poverty is the reason behind the rise of the Boko Haram insurgency, the PDP argued that poverty is not a recent phenomenon in the country and therefore cannot form the basis of the sudden wave of criminal attacks on innocent victims, most of whom live within the poverty bracket.   

"The President is right and we fully align with him on his position that Boko Haram is not a product of poverty or misrule as some people are suggesting. We agree with him that it is a local terror group. 

"There have been successive regimes before this administration but this insurgency increased the same way terrorist activities are escalating in other parts of the world at this time. So it is clear that some people are out to perpetrate acts of terrorism in Nigeria to create a semblance of insecurity as it obtains in other troubled spots of the world", the party said. 

The PDP also said it believes in the efforts by the administration to

January 23, 2013.

Press Statement

PDP Salutes Nigerians on Eid'l-Maulud 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Nigerians to put aside their differences and join hands in building an endearing society for the benefit of all.

The party, in a goodwill message to Muslims and all Nigerians to mark the Eid'l-Maulud, reiterated that it is only when Nigerians set aside religious, ethnic and political differences and unite that the nation will become a place all will be proud of.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh in a statement yesterday Nigerians to use the occasion to reflect on the message of Eid'l-Maulud and imbibe the attributes of peace, oneness and love which the Holy Prophet Mohammed epitomized. 

The party called for end to sectarian strives in the country saying Nigerians must learn to be their brothers' keepers irrespective of religious, political and tribal leanings.

"We are one people united by a common destiny; therefore we must set aside all our differences and work together as one people. We must use this occasion to reflect and imbibe the attributes of peace, unity and love towards one another", Metuh said.

He also called on religious leaders not to relent in spreading the message of love and tolerance among Nigerians. 

Stating that it has faith in Nigerians, the PDP reiterated its commitment to continue to provide a purposeful leadership to the nation.

Signed

Chief Olisa Metuh

National Publicity Secretary (PDP)

23rd January, 2013

Press Release

PDP RICE WILL SOON FLOOD THE MARKET

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr. Bamanga Turkur has described food security as a fundamental factor to peace and unity in Nigeria and paid glowing tributes to the commitment of the Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Martin Elechi to the development of agriculture.

“Food security is fundamental to a peaceful and united Nigeria. It is for this reason that the founding fathers of our great Party anchored the prosperity of our dear nation on the full exploitation of our vast agricultural potentials so that we can sufficiently feed our people as well have enough for export."

Dr. Tukur spoke today when Governor Elechi paid a New Year courtesy visit to the National Secretariat of the Party. 

" Your vote for massive agricultural development in Ebonyi state is an issue at the heart of the manifesto of our great Party while the gains you have so far recorded are proof to the efficacy of our party's objectives in agriculture. It is also a clear evidence that our party and its manifesto are alive in your state."

According to Dr. Tukur, “because agriculture holds the key to food and job security, the PDP led Federal Government has keyed in job opportunities in the agricultural sector as a veritable weapon in tackling the  current security challenges in the country."

Earlier in his speech, the Ebony State Governor, Chief Elechi commended Dr. Tukur and other members of the National Working Committee for holding high, the core vision of the Party despite minor disagreements on issues. 

January 20, 2013

Press Statement
PDP Condemns attack on Emir of Kano

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned last Saturday's attack on the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, describing it as a sacrilegious assault on the respected traditional institution.

The party also commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives in the attack as well as others that have been killed in series of such attacks in the country.

The PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh in a statement yesterday said the party is deeply saddened by the wave of attacks and urged those behind the dastardly acts to have a rethink.

Stating that there is no justification for bloodletting, the party said Nigerians should learn to live harmoniously with one another adding that those who have grievances of any kind should seek legitimate means of getting redress instead of resorting to violence.

The party however urged the security agencies to rise to the occasion and ensure that those behind the attack on the Emir and other Nigerians are brought to book. 

It also urged the Emir not to give up in his selfless contributions to the state and the nation in general.

Chief Olisa Metuh

National Publicity Secretary

January 3, 2013

Press Release
Why Nigerians Cannot Entrust Leadership to ACN, Other Parties.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday said that Nigerians cannot entrust leadership of the nation  to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) or any other political party associated with it, because of the  politics of bitterness, insult and frustration which they propagate that  engenders  division among the electorates.

Reacting to the ACN statement that PDP is preaching ethnic sentiments when the party condemned the campaign of calumny and hatred by the Action Congress of Nigeria against President Goodluck Jonathan,  the National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Olisa Metuh said, “this is why Nigerians cannot trust the ACN or any other party that associates with it with leadership of Nigeria.

“How can a political party aspiring to the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria be so consumed with the preaching and sowing the seeds of bitterness and hatred in the minds of the people they want to lead.

“Nigerians are no fools, they are watching with keen interest the seeds of bitterness and hate that the ACN and other political parties are sowing among the populace. No right thinking Nigerian will cast his or her votes for such a party that propagates schisms, bitterness among us.

“What we need at this moment of nationhood is unity and brotherliness and not the politics of hated and bitterness”, Metuh said.

He explained that the PDP as the only national party represents the dreams and aspirations of all Nigerians, advising that they should be weary of political parties that thrive on the gospels

January 30, 2012.

 Press Statement

The 58^th meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been scheduled to take place on Thursday, 2^nd February 2012 at the National Secretariat of the Party.

2.     The meeting shall discuss current political issues affecting the Party and the country at large.

3.     All NEC members are advised to attend unfialingly and the time for the meeting is 12 noon.

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

January 16, 2012.

 Press Statement

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) wishes to congratulate the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Organized Labour and indeed all Nigerians over the successful resolution of the impasse that characterized the recent decision to deregulate the downstream sector of the petroleum industry.

 

2.       The wise decision by labour to call off this strike, following the gesture of goodwill by President Goodluck Jonathan shows the importance of dialogue which we have always campaigned for. The successful end to the reign of discomfort brought upon our people signals government’s positive disposition to the yearnings of the people.

 

3.       We wish to urge all Nigerians, especially those who remain sceptical of government’s intentions to take advantage of this new window and contribute their quota to National development and desist from misinforming one another.

 

4.       We wish to once more reiterate that no society can achieve progress in an atmosphere of blackmail, intimidation, falsehood and undue politicization of issues. We wish to appeal to our citizens to beware of some elements whose interests go beyond the agitation for the reduction of the price of petroleum products.

 

5.       Now that government and labour have reached a compromise, it is time to resume our normal day-to-day legitmate businesses and jealously safeguard our hard-earned democracy which some of these elements attempted to undermine in the guise of the recent agitations.

 

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

December 18, 2011.

 Press Statement

The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje on behalf of members of the National Working Committee and the entire Party heartily congratulates His Excellency, Alhaji Dr Aliyu Magatakarda Wammakko, the Governor of Sokoto State on his victory in the gubernatorial primaries held on Saturday, 17th December 2011.

2.       The successful outcome of the primary election which was contrary to the expectations of doom Sayers has once more placed the PDP above all the rest as the most democratic and transparent of all the Parties in Nigeria. We noted a concerted effort to sow a seed of discord in our Party in Sokoto State by mischief makers in the buildup to the primaries. We are amused that these people believe that the only way to supplant our Party is to break the cohesion that exists within our fold.

3.       We are pleased that the negative expectations of these elements never materialized as our party members demonstrated in their numbers that we remain a united and strong entity with the capacity to deliver quality service to our people. The overwhelming choice of Dr Wamakko by the delegates in a peaceful, open and transparent process is a welcome development in our march to consolidate on the giant strides he has taken to develop the State.

5.       Now that the primaries have been concluded, we call on our flag bearer, Alhaji Aliyu Magatakarda Wammakko to unite the Party behind him and leave no stone unturned in bringing every PDP member on board as we prepare for the general elections in march 2012. We also urge all those who contested with him to place the interest of the Party above every other persnal consideration and ensure that we approach the general elections as a united front and win decisively.

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

TEXT OF AN ADDRESS TO THE PRESS BY THE NATIONAL PUBLICITY SECRETARY OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP) PROF. RUFAI AHMED ALKALI, ON THE SITUATION IN BAYELSA STATE. NOVEMBER 21, 2011.

 PUTTING THE RECORDS STRAIGHT 

Gentlemen of the Press,

 As you are all aware, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) successfully held its primary election in Bayelsa State on Saturday, 19^thNovember 2011 as earlier scheduled. In the open and transparent process, Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson was elected as the flagbearer of the PDP for the forthcoming Gubernatorial elections in Bayelsa State.

 

2.     On behalf of the National Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, the National Working Committee (NWC) and indeed the entire members of the Peoples Democratic Party, I wish to congratulate Hon. Henry Dickson and all stakeholders and members of the Party in Bayelsa State for the success of this important exercise. We also wish to thank the Chairman and members of the Electoral Panel and our great party men and women who defied all odds to come out and vote during the primaries. In particular, we wish to thank INEC officials, security agencies, civil society organizations, the media and all others who contributed in one way or the other towards the success of the primaries.

 

3.      Permit me to start by refreshing our memories on how we arrived at where we are today. In case some of us have forgotten, let me remind us that the elections of five of our PDP Governors namely: Kogi, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Sokoko and Cross Rivers States were annuled by the courts shortly after they were sworn in as Governors in 2007.  The courts ordered for re-run in all the five states.  Apart from these five states, Gubernatorial elections in four other PDP states namely: Edo, Ekiti, Ondo and Osun were also outrightly annulled by courts and our mandates were handed over to opposition political parties. It is instructive to note that in all these, not a single Gubernatorial seat under any opposition political had it's results cancelled and handed over to PDP.

 

4.       Yet in all these instances, the leadership of the PDP accepted the verdicts of these courts and called on all its members not only in those affected states but nationwide to remain calm and desist from doing anything that could undermine peace in the country. It is important to note that it was those five governors whose election were upturned and whose tenure were abridged that went to court to seek redress over the status of the their mandates that were disrupted by courts. They did not resort to self help nor did the PDP encourage any form of lawlessness. Unfortunately, before the courts could make final ruling on this matter, the 2011 General Elections approached and as such the party had no alternative than to commence primaries for the elections in those States.

 

5.       It is a well known fact that it was while this process was going on that the Federal High Court granted relief to the five Governors of Kogi, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Sokoto and Cross Rivers that their tenure did not lapse and therefore no elections should hold in those states at that time. This was affirmed by the Court of Appeal. However, again despite the huge costs and the political risks involved, the PDP, in difference to the court ruling, set aside all the primaries conducted earlier and started all over again. In other words, the conduct of fresh primaries in Bayelsa State and four other states namely, Kogi, Adamawa, Cross River and Sokoto States is as a result of the judgement of the Appeal Court on the tenure of the incumbent Governors which the party accepted and is implementing.

6.      What is evident however is that, despite the fact that the PDP has been at the receiving end of these judicial decisions, the Party has consistently  maintained it's principled position of not only accepting but upholding judicial decisions whether these decisions are in our favour or not.  Indeed out of our deep respect for the Judiciary, we have suffered the loss of several States including Ekiti, Osun, Ondo and Edo States without questions.  Yet despite all these set backs and sacrifices this Party has been making to ensure sustainable democratic governance in the country, the so called opposition parties, often supported by fringe groups, gloss over it with their dubious grand standing.

 

7.     Gentlemen of the Press, It is precisely because of all these that we wish to express the displeasure of the PDP over the misleading reports and misinterpretations given to the legal status of the primaries in Bayelsa State. In the last few days, various headlines, news commentaries and editorials have been generated alleging that the PDP has, in the conduct of the Bayelsa primaries defied a Court Order. This is far from the truth.  The fact of the matter is that the PDP had never received any court order stopping the conduct of the Bayelsa State primaries. And we have stated so enfantically. What the party received from the court in the suit filed by Governor Timipre Sylva was a MOTION ON NOTICE with an order asking the Party to show cause within 72 hours why the preservatory orders sought may not be granted on the return date which is 22^nd of November 2011. The Party immediately complied by filling process showing cause.

 

8.     We have stated time and time again that as the ruling Party in Nigeria, we shall always lead by example in respecting the decisions of the Judiciary. To do the contrary will amount to disservice to our nation.  We wish to restate categorically that we did not defy any Court order on Bayelsa. We have only been placed on notice to appear on the 22^ndof November to show course why certain prayers in the court papers should not be granted. It was not an order to stop the primaries contrary to all the propaganda. It was not an injunction. Surely, if there was an order stopping the primary, the party would have obeyed that order as we have always done in the past. Our legal team has already been briefed and is ready to address all the issues in Court.

 

9.     In going ahead to hold our primaries, we were guided by two main considerations. Firstly, we were conscious of the datelines given to the Parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) within which we must submit names of our candidates.  It was the duty of the National Working Committee (NWC) to ensure that our candidates were not disqualified due to late submission of a list to INEC. Secondly we were also guided by the provision of the Electoral Act 2011 (as amended). In fact, as we stated in our earlier statement on this matter, Section 87(10) precludes Courts from stopping the conduct of primaries and General Elections. We know as a matter of fact that the learned Judge of the Federal High Court would not have given an order that violates the provisions of the law.

 

10.   Nigerians will recall that the NWC had taken meticulous steps to ensure that the primaries in Bayelsa State were free, fair, transparent and credible. We set up a Screening Committee to verify the elegibility of each candidate for the primaries. We also constituted an Appeal Committee to hear and determine issues raised about each candidate. The NWC upon receiving the reports of both committees also went through a painstaking process of examining each aspirant on his individual merit. At the end of the exercise, seven out of eleven persons who sought to be candidates of the PDP were cleared to participate in the primaries. The NWC resisted the pressure to impose a candidate on the people of Bayelsa State. The choice is theirs and they have spoken.

 

11.   Now that the primaries have been concluded in Bayelsa State, we wish to put behind us all the issues relating to it and forge ahead with preparations for the elections. Let me however reiterate the fact that the powers to determine the candidature of any person in our Party rest with the people as clearly stated in the constitution of the Party. All Party members are therefore expected to respect the constitution subject to the directions as provided by the leadership of the Party. In other words, no member of the Party, no matter how highly placed is exempted from obeying the rules and regulations of the Party as provided for in the Party Constitution, the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act.

 

12.   Any member of the Party who is unhappy with some or any decisions of the Party should use existing channels of communication within the Party to seek redress. This reminder has become necessary in view of the provisions of our Party’s Constitution in Article 21 (i) which prohibits members from dragging the Party to Court without exhausting internal mechanisms for redress.

 

13.   Gentlemen of the press, as an integral part of the Nigerian society and the custodians of the peoples mandate at various levels, we owe it a duty to Nigerians to present to them candidates of impeccable character, the highest integrity and the requisite discipline and humility to respect the laws of the land. We shall not compromise on these qualities in order not to risk our chances at the polls. We wish to call on all our members in Bayelsa State to sink their differences and rally round our flagbearer Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson who has been chosen by the people of Bayelsa to lead the Party to victory in February next year.

 

14.   We wish to specially appeal to the media to balance their facts and give all parties fair hearing on all issues. The over dramatization of the Bayelsa issue and the acerbic commentaries it has attracted in some media raises a lot of questions. We wonder why other political parties do not receive the kind of media scruituny given to us. It is interesting to know for instance why the so called democrats, commentators and analysts went to bed and kept quiet in the recently concluded Local Government Elections in Lagos State where results were openly manipulated and changed in broad day light. What happened in Lagos state has been described as the worst example in Electoral fraud in Nigeria's recent history. There can not be two standards in Nigeria i.e, one for the PDP and one for others.

 

16.   We shall continue to pursue our policy of reconciliation and inclusiveness at all times. We shall also continue to defend and uphold the integrity and sanctity of the Judiciary in this country because of our firm belief that it is the last hope of the common man. We shall however not succumb to blackmail and deceit from people who wish to upturn our victories and gains for their selfish interests.

 

 Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje

He attended Baboko Native Authority Primary School, Ilorin, and at same time attended Arabic and Islamic School for all round Islamic Education. He had his Teascher’s Grade II Certificate and National Certificate in Education between 1971 and 1978. He added a Bachelor of Education Arts, in Ahmadu Bello Univeristy, Zaria in 1982.

 

He worked with Kwara State Government, as a Teacher, Education Administrator, Public Administrator and rose to the position of Permanent Secretary where voluntarily retired without blemish.

 

Kwara State at the last Presidential campaign council of our great party. He served together with other colleagues from other states at the Legacy House, PDP campaign office as an Assistant Director in-charge of Administration.

 

He worked closely with Mr. President and commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Umar Musa Yar’Adua on the 2007 pre-campaign tours round the nation as well as presidential campaign rallies throughout the 36 states of the federation including the Federal Capital.

 

Alhaji Kawu Baraje was elected the National Secretary of the Party in March 2008 and now the Acting National Chairman of the PDP.

 

January 13, 2012.

 Press Statement

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) wihses to express its happiness at the ongoing process of dialogue between Federal Government of Nigeria and the organized labour to resolve the current dispute occassioned by the deregulation of the downstream sector of the petroleum industry.

 

2.       It has always been our position that the surest means of resolving this issue is by engaging in constructive dialogue where both parties would understand the viewpoints of each other and arrive at a concensus for the benefit of all Nigerians.

 

3.       The PDP therefore wishes to commend the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR for once more demonstrating his famed goodnatured and statesmanly disposition by engaging leaders of labour in this process which has no doubt calmed frayed nerves. We also wish to commend leaders of labour for finally agreeing to negotiate an end to this needless action which has brought untold hardship to a vast majority of Nigerians.

 

4.       The National Chairman of the PDP Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje on behalf of the National Working Committee (NWC) wishes to once again appeal to those individuals and groups still parading the streets to sheath their swords and await the outcome of the dialogue between the Federal Government and Labour for the sake of the peace and stability of our dear nation.

 

5.       Finaly, we appeal to labour to call off this strike and save our artisans, petty traders, civil servants and other ordinary Nigerians from the misery they have contended with in the last one week.

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

 

January 11, 2012.

 PRESS STATEMENT

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemns in the strongest terms the violence that have ensued in parts of the country as a result of the ongoing strike and protests by organized Labour and a section of the Civil Society.

2.        We are particularly pained that innocent young children are being dragged into this circle of violence and are indeed being used as human shields by mischief-makers who have hijacked this protests in order to vent their anger and frustrations over their political failures. The National Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, on behalf of the National Working Committee (NWC) wishes to commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives or property and pray that the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.

3.          We had earlier cautioned the Labour movement that the resort to street processions and demonstrations at this point in time would ultimately spiral out of control and fall into the hands of people who harbor different agenda and would exploit this situation to advance their selfish interests. The misguided conduct of some of these politicians and utterances saying the "struggle" goes beyond reversal of the fuel price has clearly confirmed our fears.

4.         We are compelled to believe that some of the politicians who lost out in the last general elections and who woefully failed at the Courts have now taken advantage of this protests by Nigerian Workers to incite Nigerians in order to cause political instability in the Country. For them, now that they have failed at the polls, they do not mind bringing down the roof, even if by doing so, would bring untold hardship, pain and anguish to the people of this country. 

5.        We similarly strongly condemn the irresponsible actions and pronouncements that have resulted in the reported mass movement of Nigerians from places where they earn their legitimate living to their States of origin. We are saddened that despite the collective desire of all Nigerians to live peacefully together, some people are bent on undermining the unity and stability of the nation. We wish to call on all Nigerians to stay where they are, remain calm and allow the security agencies handle all matters arising thereof.

6.         We wish to once again appeal to the Labour to weigh the effects of their current action on the unity, peace and stability of the Nation and call off this Strike without any further delay. We believe that the only option available for any meaningful engagement remains dialogue, where all grey areas and misconceptions would be ironed out in the overall interest of our fatherland.

7.        Finally, we wish to assure all Nigerians that their welfare and well-being remains paramount in the transformation agenda of the Federal Government. All actions so far taken are geared towards achieving the long-term objectives of building a productive and vibrant economy that will benefit the entire citizens of this country especially in terms of addressing the decay in our infrastructure and creating jobs for our youths.

Prof Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

 

 

January 5, 2012

Press Statement

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) met on Thursday, 5^th January, 2012 and reviewed developments in the Party and the nation. Specifically, the National Working Committee (NWC) reviewed preparations for the forthcoming congresses and the National Convention of the Party. To ensure a smooth and successful exercise, the state Chairmen of the Party were invited and briefed on the state of preparations, on Wednesday, 4^th January, 2012.

 

2.       After thorough deliberations on reports arising from the meeting with the state Chairmen, the National Working Committee (NWC), conscious of its resolve to ensure credible and transparent congresses and National Convention, has decided to postpone the take- off of the exercise in order to give the State chapters enough time to mobilize our members nationwide. New dates will be announced in due course.

 

3.       Similarly, the National Working Committee (NWC) wishes to call on the Organized Labour, Civil Society organizations, Student Associations and Nigerians in general to exercise restraint in their utterances and actions over the recent government policy on the deregulation of the downstream sector of the petroleum industry.

 

4.       While it is conceded there is bound to be legitimate fears and concerns over every new government policy, we should all be mindful of some anti democratic forces who, for their own selfish reasons are trying desperately to take advantage of this situation to undermine the unity, peace and security of our nation.

 

5.       The fact of the matter is that, the deregulation of the downstream sector of the petroleum industry is a patriotic decision taken by government in the overall interest of all Nigerians. The initial accompanying pains will definitely be diminished by the long term benefits of the policy to each and every Nigerian.

 

6.       We therefore once again call on all Nigerians, especially the organized labour, Civil Organizations, Students Associations and other interest groups to embrace the dialogue option already offered by the Federal Government in order to resolve any issues arising from this laudable policy. We should do everything possible to support President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan in his deep commitment and determination to transform Nigeria into one of the leading nations in the world.

 

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

 

 

December 28, 2011.

 Press Statement

       The unanimous verdit by the Supreme Court declaring President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR as the winner of the 2011 presidential election has once more vindicated the position of most Nigerians on the sanctity of the General Elections.

2.     The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, on behalf of the National Working Committee (NWC) and all our members nationwide heartily congratulates His Excellency the President and the Vice President over this historic endorsement and validation of their election into office by the highest court in the land.

3.     The judgement of the Supreme Court brings to a close a tortuous process of litigation which we felt was unnecessary in the first place. We however wish to congratulate the learned jurists for a thorough verdict which will no doubt strengthen the faith of the common man in the judiciary. We wish to appeal to those who lost out to now join hands with President Goodluck Jonathan as he focuses on the enormous task of national transformation, beginning with fixing our faltering economy and provision of security for the protection of lives and property.

4.     The time for elections and litigation is now over. What should now be our collective goal is the stability and growth of our dear country. We therefore call on all Nigerians to set aside political, social, religious and ethnic differences and unite for the sake of the current and future generations.

5.     Finally, we congratulate our team of lawyers and witnesses who painstakingly ensured that the will of the people, freely expressed in the April 2011 Elections is sustained.

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

 

December 19, 2011.

 Press Statement

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has observed that despite the Federal Government’s painstaking efforts to engage a broad section of the Nigerian society in constructive dialogue over thre issue of the viability or otherwise of the petroleum subsidy regime, a section of the labour movement and some civil society organizations have been making utterances capable of causing disquiet in the system.

 

2.       We are particularly outraged by the threatening and interperate language of the leadership of the NLC in interviews over the weekend where it’s President threatened to “wrestle the government to the ground” if fuel subsidy is removed.

 

3.       At the commencement of the debate on fuel subsidy, we had cause to invite all stakeholders who have ideas on the way forward to engage the government with such arguments in a civilized and constructive manner.

 

4.       However, the resort to inciting statements, blackmail and reckless pronouncments by organized labour is counter-productive and does not add value to the current effort of rescuing Nigeria from the negative effects of this unsustainable subsidy regime.

 

5.       The PDP has always maintained that the rapid transformation of the critical sectors of our economy like infrastructure, health, agriculture and education which we all desire will be better enhanced if channels of waste such as the current subsidy are plugged.

 

6.       The government of President Goodluck Jonathan has been consistent in its all inclusive approach of seeking the imputs of Nigerians in formulating policies. We wish to advise leaders of labour to utilize this open door policy of the administration by moderating their voices and dispassionately appreciating the issues involved.

 

7.       The use of threats can only jeopadize the stability of the country and endanger our democracy. We wish to once again call on al Nigerians to critically examine the economic dangers we currently face and rally round the government it its quest to find a lasting solution to the current challenges.

 

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary 

ADDRESS BY THE ACTING NATIONAL CHAIRMAN OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY, ALHAJI ABUBAKAR KAWU BARAJE TO THE MEDIA ON THE ONGOING MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION EXERCISE

Gentlemen of the Press,

You will recall that the 56^th meeting of the National Executive Committee of our great Party held on the 28^th of July, 2011 had among other resolutions approved that the Party undertakes a membership registration exercise beginning from September 2011.

 

2.       The decision to open up our Party’s register is informed by the need to afford our teeming admirers and supporters out there the opportunity to formaly join the PDP and actively participate in the national transformation agenda of our great Party. It is also borne out of the need to update our membership profile and also provide a level playing field for all those who wish to utilize the many opportunities and advantages that the PDP offers to deserving Nigerians.

 

3.       The membership registration exercise commenced nationwide on the 1^st of September 2011. We have so far received satisfactory reports that Nigerians in their thousands have so far visited our ward offices nationwide to register as members of the PDP.

 

4.       Let me use this opportunity to clarify the purpose of this exercise. The ongoing membership exercise is open to all Nigerians from 18 years and above who fulfil the criteria for membership of our Party. It is also an opportunity for current members to revalidate or renew their membership of our great Party.

 

5.       For the avoidance of doubt, our Ward Executives must be informed that this is not a deregistration exercise, nor is it a forum to whimsically deny deserving Nigerians the opportunity to join the largest Party on the African continent.

 

6.       The registration project is conceived in the all-inclusive philosophy of the PDP and must be insulated from unnecessary controversies by certain over zealous persons trying to privatize the Party by preventing others from joining.

 

7.       Let me warn very strongly that the National Working Committee shall take decisive actions against any member of the Executive Committees at any level found to be engaged in unwholesome activities during this registration period.     

 

8.       Intending members and current members are required to update their membership dues. Those members who have outstanding dues to pay must do so during this registration window if they are to remain bona fide members of the Party.      

 

9.       The NWC recognizes the fact that there exist disputes in some states as to who the authentic executives are at the ward, local government and state levels. For these states, special committees shall be set up to harmonize Party registers and to reach mutually acceptable decisions to allow for a hitch free registration exercise.

 

10.     According to our Constitution, membership registers close one month before the commencement of congresses. The current exercise will therefore terminate on the 7^th of December, 2011, one month before the forthcoming ward congresses to elect ward executives.

 

11.     To ensure fairness and to assuage the feelings of those who may have complaints over the conducts of the exercise, the NWC shall dedicate 10 days after the close of registers to entertain petitions.

 

12.     National Vice Chairmen shall supervise the registration exercise in their various geopolitical zones while members of the National Working Committee shall oversee it in the various states.

 

13.     Gentlemen of the Press, this registration exercise marks the first step in the transition period of the current National Executive Committee. This transition period is remarkable because it marks the first time an elected National Executive will be completing its constitutional tenure   of four years since the inception of the Party.

 

14.     I wish to therefore use this opportunity to thank you in the media for the cooperation you have given us and further solicit your support as we embark on this transition voyage.

 

15.     Let me also size this opportunity to appeal to all Nigerians to rise up and stem the ugly tide of violence we have been witnessing in the past few weeks. The unfortunate incidents of suicide bombing and internecine bloodletting on the Plateau do not augur well for our drive to join the 20 most developed economies in the year 2020.

 

16.     No society can achieve its development objectives in an atmosphere of violence and uncertainty. We therefore urge those behind these regrettable scenes to heed the call of President Goodlcuk Ebele Jonathan and give peace a chance.

 

17.     Gentlemen of the press, I thank you for your kind attention and once again welcome to our Secretariat.

 

 

Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje

Acting National Chairman.

 

MAKINDE WILLIAMS, ILIJITIMA, ILERHIJELE

Born on April 20, 1961 in Ethiope West, Oghara Local Government Area of Delta State. Mr. Williams Makinde after his Primary and Secondary education attended University of Benin and came out with B.Sc. Degree in 1986 after which he progressed in 1992 to University of Calabar in where he graduated in 1995 with Masters in Business Administration (MBA). In the year 2000,

Mr. Makinde bagged ACA from the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Accountants and Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administration in the United Kingdom. And to further joined the computer age in information and technology in 1994 he went to Associated School of computer Technology, Calabar and obtained a Diploma in Data Processing.

 

Dear Compatriots,

 

1. This is the second time in two weeks I will address you on the deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector. In the last seven days, the nation has witnessed a disruption of economic activities. Although, the economic imperatives for the policy have been well articulated by government, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) went ahead to declare a nationwide strike.

 

 

2. There was also near-breakdown of law and order in certain parts of the country as a result of the activities of some persons or groups of persons who took advantage of the situation to further their narrow interests by engaging in acts of intimidation, harassment and outright subversion of the Nigerian state. I express my sympathy to those who were adversely affected by the protests.

 

3. At the inception of the deregulation policy, Government had set up the Justice Alfa Belgore Committee to liaise with Labour and other stakeholders to address likely grey areas in the policy, but despite all our efforts, Labour refused the option of dialogue and also disobeyed a restraining order of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

 

 

4. However, following the intervention of the Leadership of the National Assembly, and other well-meaning Nigerians, Labour accepted to meet with government, but this yielded no tangible result.

 

 

 

 5. It has become clear to government and all well-meaning   Nigerians that other interests beyond the implementation of the deregulation policy have hijacked the protest. This has prevented an objective assessment and consideration of all the contending issues for which dialogue was initiated by government. These same interests seek to promote discord, anarchy, and insecurity to the detriment of public peace.

 

 

6. Government appreciates that the implementation of the deregulation policy would cause initial hardships and commends Nigerians who have put forth suggestions and credible alternatives in this regard. Government also salutes Nigerians who by and large, conducted themselves peacefully while expressing their grievances. Let me assure you that government will continue to respect the people’s right to express themselves within the confines of the law and in accordance with the dictates of our democratic space.

 

 

7. Government will continue to pursue full deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector. However, given the hardships being suffered by Nigerians, and after due consideration and consultations with state governors and the leadership of the National Assembly, government has approved the reduction of the pump price of petrol to N97 per litre. The Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) has been directed to ensure compliance with this new pump price.

 

 

8. Government is working hard to reduce recurrent expenditure in line with current realities and to cut down on the cost of governance. In the meantime, government has commenced the implementation of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment projects: including the Federal Government- assisted mass transit programme which is already in place, and job creation for the youth.

 

 

9. Furthermore, the legal and regulatory regime for the petroleum industry will be reviewed to address accountability issues and current lapses in the Industry. In this regard, the Petroleum Industry Bill will be given accelerated attention. The report of the forensic audit carried out on the NNPC is being studied with a view to implementing the recommendations and sanctioning proven acts of corruption in the industry.

 

 

10. Let me assure Nigerians that this administration is irrevocably committed to tackling corruption in the petroleum industry as well as other sectors of the economy. Consequently, all those found to have contributed one way or the other to the economic adversity of the country will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

 

 

11. My dear compatriots, I urge you to show understanding for the imperatives of the adjustment in the pump price of petrol and give government your full support to ensure its successful implementation. I further appeal to Nigerians to go back to work and go about their normal duties as government has made adequate arrangements for the protection of life and property throughout the federation.

 

 

12. Government will not condone brazen acts of criminality and subversion. As President, I have sworn to uphold the unity, peace and order of the Nigerian State and by the grace of God, I intend to fully and effectively discharge that responsibility. Let me add that we are desirous of further engagements with Labour. I urge our Labour leaders to call off their strike, and go back to work.

 

 

13. Nigeria belongs to all of us and we must collectively safeguard its unity.

 

 

14. Thank you. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 

 

 

GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN, GCFR

 

President,

 

Federal Republic of Nigeria

 

RESOLUTIONS OF THE 57^TH MEETING OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY HELD ON THE 22^ND OF DECEMBER 2011.

Gentlemen of the Press,

The 57^th meeting of the National Executive Committee of our great Party, the PDP just ended here at the National Secretariat. The well attended meeting had the President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Vice President, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo, the Senate President, Senator David Mark, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, former National Chairmen, members of the Board of Trustees and several other members of NEC in attendance.

 

2.       The meeting reviewed the state of the Party since the last meeting held on the 28^th of July 2011, especially preparations for primaries in the five States ordered by various tribunals. The States are: - Kogi, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Sokoto and Cross River States. So far, the Party has successfully held primaries in Kogi, Bayelsa, Adamawa and Sokoto States.

 

3.       Indeed, the gubernatorial elections have been held in Kogi States with the PDP emerging victorious. Preparations are in top gear for the gubernatorial primaries in Cross River State with the sale of forms commencing on the 2^nd of January 2012.

 

4.       NEC commended the National Working Committee for a thorough handling of the primaries in the affected states and urged all Party members to accept the outcome of the exercise in the spirit of Party loyalty, unity and cohesion.

 

5.       NEC also received a report on progress of work at the new National Secretariat and noted with satisfaction that work is going on according to schedule with the building now on the 10^th floor out of the targetted 12 floors.

 

6.       On the forthcoming Congresses to elect Party officials at all levels, NEC commended the enthusiasm shown by Party members nationwide especially the smooth conclusion of the update of ward registers. NEC expressed its determination to see to the successful conclusion of the transition exercise. NEC also agreed on proposals for consultations on zoning of Party offices in order to consolidate our broadbased national support and carry each constituent part of the nation along. A decision on what office goes to what zone shall be commencated to members in due course.

 

7.       NEC also dismissed speculations in some circles that plans are underway to disolve some State Executive Committees before the expiration of their tenures. NEC affirms its commitment to provision of the Party constitution on tenure of officials and urged officials concerned to disregard such rumours.

 

8.       NEC was briefed on progress of the PDP Constitution review Committee lead by the National Legal Adviser. The committee is still working but has made substantial progress in fashioning a new constitution which shall be in tune with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act. The review Committee shall present a comprehensive report in due course.

 

9.       NEC received a comprehensive report on the planned removal of fuel subsidy from the Vice President, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo. NEC endorsed the plans and urged all Nigerians to embrace the project as a sure way to avoid the collapse of some economies in Europe. NEC urged Party members to educate fellow citizens nationwide on the benefits of the removal and called for vigilance against those who wish to sabotage the programme.

 

10.     Some of the highlights of the proposal is that the proceeds of the fuel subsidy removal shall be channeled to various critical sectors of the economy such as Education, Health Care, Road and Rail infrastructure, Hydro Electric Power and Industrial Development.

 

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

Resolutions of the 56^th Meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party held on Thursday 28^th July, 2011.

Gentlemen of the Press,

The 56^th meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of our great Party, the PDP held today at the National Secretariat. 

The meeting, which is the first to be held since the last General Elections was well attended and had the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, the Vice President, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo, GCON, the President of the Senate, Senator David Mark and other distinguished members of NEC in attendance.

 

The meeting considered various issues bordering on the smooth administration of the Party and arrived at the following resolutions:-

 

1.    The National Executive Committee unanimously endorsed the appointment of Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje as the Acting National Chairman of the PDP to fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the former Acting National Chairman, Dr. Bello Haliru Mohammed as Hon. Minister of Defence. Similarly, NEC also approved the appointment of Dr. Musa Babayo, erstwhile Deputy National Secretary as Acting National Secretary in view of the vacancy created by the appointment of Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje as Acting National Chairman. They shall, along with the remaining members of the National Working Committee oversee the affairs of the Party until the tenure of the current Executive Committee runs out in March, 2012.

 

2. NEC also considered dates and guidelines for Party Congresses and National Convention of our Party which shall elect officers for the Party at all levels. This is in line with provisions of the PDP Constitution, which prescribes a four year tenure for elected Executives at all levels.

 

3. After exhaustive debate, the following time-table was approved by NEC:-

 

i. Ward Congresses             - 7^th January, 2012

ii. LGA Congresses              - 14^th January, 2012

iii. State Congresses            - 21^st January, 2012

iv. Zonal Congresses           - 4^th February, 2012

v. National Convention         - 25^th February, 2012

 

The handing over to the new National Executive Committee shall be between 27^thFebruary and 8^th of March, 2012.

 

4. NEC also approved the Constitution of a 21 member Committee to propose amendments for the PDP Constitution to align it with provision of the Electoral Act and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Members of the press will recall that the amendment of the Electoral Act of 2011 renders some provisions of the PDP Constitution obsolete. Such issues as inclusion of unelected delegates to Congresses and Conventions as well as mode of elections shall be reviewed in line with the new Electoral Law.

 

5. The 21 member Committee shall be chaired by the National Legal Adviser with members drawn from the Executive, National Assembly, Governors Forum, State Chairmen, Youths and Women representatives and National Secretariat.

 

6. NEC congratulated the President, Dr. Goolduck Ebele Jonathan, the Vice President, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo and all members elected to public offices and charged Party members to keep faith with the Party and ensure its victory in all outstanding elections. Finally, NEC called on all elected and appointed officials to strive to ensure that their actions and utterances are such that will win the hearts and minds of the people of Nigerians at all times.

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

RESOLUTIONS OF THE 55^TH MEETING OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY HELD ON THURSDAY 16^TH DECEMBER, 2010

 

Gentlemen of the press,

The 55^th meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of our great Party the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held yesterday here at the National Secretariat of our great Party. The meeting was well attended by leaders of the Party at various levels, including the President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Vice President, the Senate President, State Governors, Members of the Board of Trustees and other Statutory Members of NEC.

 

2.     NEC deliberated on guidelines for our primaries following the release of the electoral time table by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

 

3.     After exhaustive deliberations, NEC approved the following time table for the conduct of PDP primaries.

 

        Event                                                               Date

i.      Announcement and Notification of INEC

        of PDP Special Congresses and Convention   Dec. 16, 2010

 

ii.     Publication of Notices of Special/National

        Convention and purchase and return of

        Expression of Interest/Nomination forms

        By Aspirants to Elective offices                            Dec 16, 2010

iii.     Election of 3 Adhoc Delegates in Ward

Congresses Nationwide                                       Dec 28, 2010

 

iv.     Election of one (1) National Delegate in each

        of the 774 Local Government Areas

Nationwide                                                        Jan 11, 2011

 

A.          STATE ASSEMBLY PRIMARIES

i.             Screening of State Assembly Aspirants shall hold at all state Capitals on December 21^st and December 22^nd. Screening Appeals shall be heard on December 23^rd.

 

ii.           State Assembly Congresses shall hold at State Assembly Constituencies Nationwide on Jan 3^rd 2011. Runoffs (if any) shall hold on the same day.

 

iii.         Electoral Appeals for State Assembly Congresses shall be heard on the 4^th of January.

 

B.          NATIONAL ASSEMBLY PRIMARIES

i.             Screening for both Senate and House of Representatives Aspirants shall hold on the 29^th and 30^th December, 2010.

 

ii.           Screening Appeals shall be heard on the 31^st of December, 2010.

 

iii.         Special Congresses for the election of both Senate and House of Representatives Candidates shall hold at Federal Constituency headquarters and Senatorial District headquarters on the 5^th of January 2011.

 

iv.         Electoral Appeals for National Assembly primaries shall take place on the 7^th of January 2011.

 

C.          GUBERNATORIAL PRIMARIES

i.             Screening of all gubernatorial aspirants shall hold at state PDP Secretariats nationwide on the 21^st and 22^nd December 2010.

 

ii.           Screening Appeals shall be on the 23^rd of December 2010.

 

iii.         Special Congresses and runoffs (if any) to elect gubernatorial candidates shall hold in all eligible states on the 9^th of January 2011.

 

iv.         Electoral Appeals is on the 10^th of January 2010.

 

D.          PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES

i.             Screening of Presidential Aspirants shall hold here in Abuja on the 11^th of January 2010. 

 

ii.           Screening Appeals (if any) shall follow on the 12^th of January 2011.

 

iii.         A Special National Convention to elect a Presidential flagbearer for the Peoples Democratic Party shall hold here in Abuja on the 13^th of January 2011.

 

iv.         All National delegates shall vote here in Abuja to elect the PDP Presidential candidates.

 

v.           The names of all successful candidates shall be submitted to INEC on the 15^th of January 2011.

 

4.     Meanwhile, the guidelines for the Congresses, Primaries and National Convention for the election of delegates and nomination of Party flagbearers remain valid as approved earlier by the National Executive Committee at its 53^rd meeting held on the 15^th of September here at the National Secretariat.

All aspirants should therefore ensure that they comply fully with the provisions of these guidelines to ensure that they don’t suffer any encumbrances in the process.

 

5.     Gentlemen of the press, the PDP timetable was arrived at after painstaking consultations with all stakeholders within the Party.

 

6.     We therefore solicit the cooperation of all Party members, and indeed all Nigerians, including you gentlemen of the press to achieve a peaceful, democratic and all inclusive nomination exercise.

 

7.     On behalf of the Peoples Democratic Party, I thank you all for coming.

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary

 

RESOLUTIONS OF THE 53^RD MEETING OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (NEC) HELD ON WEDNESDAY, 15^TH SEPTEMBER 2010 AT THE PDP NATIONAL SECRETARIAT.

Gentlemen of the Press,

The 53^rd meeting of the National Executive Committee just ended here at our National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja. The meeting was well attended and was graced by distinguished leaders of the Party including President Goodluck Jonathan (GCFR), represented by the Vice President, Arc. Muhammad Namadi Sambo, GCON,  the Leadership of the National Assembly, members of the Board of Trustees, State Governors and other members of the National Executive Committee.

 

2.       The meeting considered critical issues affecting the Party, especially preparations for the forth coming General Elections following the release of a time-table by the Independent National Electoral commission (INEC).

 

GUIDELINES/TIME TABLE FOR PRIMARIES

3.       In the exercise of the powers conferred on it by Article 12.72 (i) and 17.1 and 2 of the Constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party, the National Executive Committee approved Guidelines for the conduct of primaries for the election of candidates for the offices of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, State Governors, Members of the National Assembly and Members of the State Houses of Assembly. The guidelines will also govern the election of Ad-Hoc ward delegates and National delegates.

The approved dates and procedures are as follows:

 

S/N	ACTIVITY	DATE
1	Announcement and notification to INEC of PDP Special Congresses/Conventions (Primaries)	Sept. 12 2010
2.	Publication of Notice of PDP Congresses, Special/National Conventions and Purchase and Return of Expression of Interest and nomination Forms by Aspirants to Elective Offices	Sept. 15 2010
3.	Purchase of Collection and Return of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms by State Assembly, Gubernatorial, National Assembly and Presidential Aspirants.	Sept. 16, Sept 26 2010
4.	Election of 3 Ad-Hoc Ward Delegates nationwide	Sept. 21 2010 Tuesday
5.	Election of National Delegates nationwide	Sept. 23 2010, Thursday

 

 

 

STATE ASSEMBLY PRIMARIES

 

S/N	ACTIVITY	DATE
i.	Screening of National and State Assembly Aspirants	Sept. 21-24, 2010
ii.	Screening  Appeals (National/State Assembly Aspirants)	Sept. 25 – 26, 2010
iii.	Special Congresses Elections at State assembly Constituencies nationwide	October 2, 2010
iv.	Run-off	October 4, 2010
v.	Electoral Appeals	October 5, 2010

 

 

GUBERNATORIAL PRIMARIES

 

S/N	ACTIVITY	DATE
i.	Screening of Aspirants	Sept. 25 – 26 2010
ii.	Screening Appeals	Sept. 27 – 28 2010
iii.	Special Congresses (Primary Elections) and LGAs in Senatorial District 1 LGAs in North or West Senatorial District 2 LGAs in Senatorial District 3	October 6 2010   October 7 2010 October 8 2010
iv.	Electoral Appeals	October 10 2010

 

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY PRIMARIES

 

S/N	ACTIVITY	DATE
i.	Screening National and State Assembly Aspirants	Sept. 21 - 24 2010
ii.	Screening Appeals (National and State Assembly)	Sept. 25 – 26 2010
iii.	Special Congresses (Primary Elections) at Reps, Senatorial Districts and Federal Constituencies nationwide	October 12 2010
iv.	Senate	October 14 2010
v.	Electoral Appeals	October 15 2010

 

PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES

 

S/N	ACTIVITY	DATE
i.	Screening of Aspirants	October 14 2010
ii.	Screening  Appeals	October 17 2010
iii.	Special Conventions in States and FCT/ (Presidential Primaries) States in north Central and South East Zones 1 States in North West and South South Zones 2 States in North East and South west Zones 3	October 18 2010   October 19 2010   October 20 2010
iv.	Ratification National Convention	October 23 2010

 

 

DELEGATES TO CONGRESSES/CONVENTIONS

 

AD-HOC DELEGATES:

4.       For the purposes of nominating the Party’s candidates for the offices of Governor of a State, member of the National Assembly (Senate/House of Reps) and member of the State House of Assembly and National Delegate, each ward chapter of the Party shall elect three (3) ward Ad-Hoc delegates at a special ward congress at least one of whom shall be a woman.

 

NATIONAL DELEGATE:

5.       For the purpose of nominating the Party’s Presidential Candidate, each of the 774 Local Government Party Chapters shall produce one (1) National Delegate to the Special Conventions through a special Local Government Congress. The Party’s Executive at the ward, local government, State, zonal and National levels shall by virtue of their respective offices be automatic delegates to the Local Government, Special Congresses. Other automatic delegates include the LG Chairmen, Deputy Chairmen and Councilors, members of the National and State Assemblies members of the Board of Trustees, President/Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, State Governor and Deputy Governors who are members of the Party.

 

MODE OF ELECTION OF DELEGATES:

 

6.       Delegates for Congresses/Conventions shall emerge as follows:-

 

i.        Three Ward delegates at the ward congress shall emerge by direct voting by all card carrying members registered at the wards. One (1) National delegate shall emerge at the Local Government Congress and shall be voted by the 3 Ad-Hoc delegates and the various Local Government/Ward Executives.

 

PROCEDURE FOR EMERGENCE OF PDP CANDIDATES

 

STATE ASSEMBLY CONGRESS:

7.       For the purpose of nominating a State Assembly Candidate, the Party shall hold a Special Congress at a designated Centre in the State Assembly Constituency.

 

Delegates to a State Assembly Congress shall include:-

 

i.        A National, Zonal or State Executive member of the Party from the State Constituency.

ii.       An Elected Political Office holder – President, Vice-President, National Assembly member, Governor, Deputy Governor from the State Constituency.

iii.      A State assembly member from the State Constituency.

 

iv.      A Local Government Party Chairman or member of the LGA Executive Committee from the State Constituency.

 

v.       A Member of the Board of Trustees from the State Constituency.

 

vi.      An Elected Local Government Council Government Area in the State Constituency.

 

vii.     A Ward Executive Member from a Local Government Area in the state Constituency.

 

viii.    A Former Local Government Party Chairman  or Secretary from the State Constituency.

 

ix.      A Former Local Government Council Chairman, Vice-Chairman or leader (Speaker) from the State Constituency.

 

x.       A Ward Ad-Hoc delegate from the State Constituency.

 

GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARIES

 

8.       For the purpose of nominating a gubernatorial candidate, the Party shall hold a Special Congress in each of the Local Government Area where delegates shall vote for aspirants. The aspirants with the highest number of votes at the end of voting shall emerge as Candidates.

 

Delegates to Special State Congresses shall be:-

 

i.        National Chairman and Members of the National Executive Committee.

 

ii.       Elected office holders from the state.

 

iii.      Members of the Zonal and State Executive Committee.

 

iv.      LG Party Secretary, Treasurer, Youth Leader and Woman Leader.

 

v.       3 Ad-Hoc delegates from each ward.

 

vi.      Former members of state Working Committee.

 

vii.     Former Governor and Deputy produced by the Party.

 

viii.    Former Speakers & Deputy Speakers.

SENATORIAL CONGRESS

 

9.       For the Purpose of nominating a Senatorial Candidate, the Party shall hold a Special Congresses at a designated centre in the Senatorial District. Delegates to the Senatorial Congress shall include:-

i.        A National, Zonal or State Executive member of the Party from the Senatorial District.

 

ii.       An Elected Political office holder – President, Vice President, National Assembly Member, Governor, Deputy Governor from the Senatorial District.

iii.      A State Assembly member from the Senatorial District.

iv.      A local Government Party Chairman or Member of the LGA Executive Committee from the Senatorial District.

v.       A Member of the Board of Trustees from a Local Government Area in the Senatorial District.

vi.      An Elected Local Government Council Chairman, Vice – Chairman or Councilor from the Senatorial District.

vii.     A ward Executive member from the Senatorial District.

 

viii.    A former Local Government Party Chairman or Secretary from the Senatorial District.

ix.      A Former Local Government Council Chairman, Vice Chairman or Leader (Speaker) from the Senatorial District.

 

x.       A Ward Ad-Hoc Delegate from the Senatorial District.

 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONGRESS

 

10.     For the purpose of nominating a House of Representatives, the Party shall hold a Special Congress at a designated centre.

 

Delegates to House of Reps Congress shall include:-

 

i.        A National, Zonal or state Executive member of the Party from the Federal Constituency.

 

ii.       An Elected Political Office holder – President, Vice President, National Assembly member, Governor, Deputy Governor from the Federal Constituency.

iii.      A State Assembly member from the Federal Constituency.

iv.      A local Government Party Chairman or member of the LGA Executive committee from the Federal Constituency.

v.       A member of the Board of Trustees from a Local Government Area in the Federal Constituency.

vi.      An elected Local Government Council Chairman, Vice-Chairman or Councilor from the Federal Constituency.

vii.     A Ward Executive Member from a local Government Area in the Federal Constituency.

viii.    A Former Local Government Party Chairman or Secretary from the Federal Constituency.

ix.      A Former Local Government Council Chairman, Vice-Chairman or Leader (Speaker) from the Federal Constituency.

x.       A Ward Ad-Hoc Delegate fro the Federal Constituency.       

 

PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES

11.     For the purpose of nominating the Presidential Candidate, the Party shall hold Special Conventions in each of the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory where delegates shall vote for aspirants at designated centers in each state capital. Delegates to the National Convention are:

i.        The National Chairman and members of the National Executive Committee.

ii.       All elected Office Holders – President, Vice President, National Assembly Member, Governor, Deputy Governor, State Assembly member, member of Board of Trustees and Local Government Council Chairman.

iii.      Member of the Zonal Working Committee.

 

iv.      State Party Chairman, State Secretary, State Youth Leader, State Woman Leader Local Government Party Chairmen.

v.       Former members of National Working Committee.

 

vi.      Former President of Senate, Deputy President of Senate, Speaker and Deputy.

vii.     One National Delegate.

 

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST/NOMINATION FEES

 

12.     NEC approved the following nomination fees that must be paid by all aspirants as follows:-

 

i.        Presidential

          a.       Expression of interest               -                  N  1,000,000

          b.       Nomination forms                     -                  N10,000,000

 

ii.       Gubernatorial

          a.       Expression of Interest               -                  N     500,000

          b.       Nomination fees                       -                  N  5,000,000

 

iii.      Senatorial                                                    -                  N     200,000

                                                                             -                  N  2,000,000

 

iv.      House of Representatives                             -                  N     100,000

                                                                             -                  N  1,000,000

 

v.       State House of Assembly

          a.       Expression of Interest               -                  N    100,000

          b.       Nomination fees                       -                  N    500,000

 

All female aspirants are exempted from paying nomination fees, but are expected to pay the expression of interest fees at every level.               

13.     NEC also directed National Working Committee to constitute various Committees for the conduct of all congresses/conventions. They are:-

i.        Screening Committees

ii.                  Congress Electoral Committees

iii.                Appeal Committees

 

The National Working Committee shall be the appeal Committee for Presidential Primaries.

 

GRANTING OF WAIVERS

14.     NEC received applications for waivers from various state Executive Committees and gave the following approvals:-

 

i.        Adamawa State:              -        a. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

 

ii.       Imo State:                       -        a. (Mrs.) Ada Okwuonu (Deputy

                                                           Governor)

                                                -        b. Chief Chikwem Onuoha

                                                -        Mrs. Ijeoma Nwafor

 

iii.      Abia State:                      -        a. Rt. Hon. Charles Chinedum Elechi

                                                          (Abia State House of Assembly)

                                                -        b. Hon. Prince N. Okoro

                                                          (Abia State House of Assembly)

 

iv.      Edo State:                       -        a. Dr. David Imuse

 

v.       Anambra State:               -        a. Senator Alphonsus Igbeke

 

vi.      Kogi State:                      -        a. Chief Olusola Akanmode

                                                -        b. Sen. Mohammed Salami Ohiare

                                                -        c. Sen. Salihu Otaru Ohize

                                                -        d. Hon. Abdulkareem Saliu

                                                -        e. Hon. Suleiman Kokori Abdul

                                                -        f. Arc. Abdulmumeen Ahmed Okara

                                                -        g. Hon. Momoh Jimoh Anda

 

In view of time and tight election schedules NEC mandated the National Working Committee to treat all future applications for waivers for the 2011 General Elections.

 

15.     On the midterm Conference and Special Convention, NEC resolved to put it on hold in view of limited time available for the conduct of Congresses and Convention.

 

16.     Finally, NEC admonished all Party members to give maximum cooperation to officers sent to conduct the various exercises and conduct themselves peacefully.

 

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary 

 

National Campaign Committee for the Gubernatorial Election

in Bayelsa State

1. H. E. Arc. Namadi Sambo (VP) - Chairman

2. H. E. Senator David Mark (Sen. Pres) - Member

3. Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal (Speaker) - “

4. H. E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo (BOT Chairman)

5. Chief Tony Anenih (Leader) - “

Revised Time-Table for Gubernatorial Primary Election in Cross

River State

S/N0 ACTIVITY DATE VENUE

1. Sale of EOI/Nomination

Forms

Jan. 1-8 National

Secretariat,

Abuja.

2. Return of Forms Jan. 8-12 National

Secretariat,

Abuja.

3. Screening Jan. 16 Zonal

Secretariat,

Port Harcourt

The inauguration of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Campaign Committee for the Bayelsa State Gubernatorial election earlier scheduled for Tuesday January 17^th 2012 has been shifted to Thursday, 19^th Janaury 2012.

HAJIYA MARYAN INNA CIROMA

Married to Mallam Adamu Ciroma, (Madakin Fika), Hajia Maryan Inna Ciroma, a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, was born in Biu, Biu Local Government of Borno State on September 11, 1954.

Hajiya Ciroma who holds a certificate of good governance and Anti Corruption from Marquete University, United States of America spent most of her life in the service of the nation at various levels of both civil and public service. She was a Cadet Editor, NTA Kaduna, Current Affairs Division, Administrative Officer, Federal Civil Service Commission 1979-1983, Administrative Officer, Federal Ministry of Industries, Lagos (1983 – 1985). She later ventured into private business where she set up LAMIRAGE Restaurant, running it as its managing Director/Chief Executive; INTIS Investment Company Limited, holding the same position of MD/CEO.

Hajiya Maryan Inna Ciroma was Minister of Women Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2003-2007. Variously she had served as member of the PDP National Reform Committee, National Boundary Adjustment Committee, Education Sector Reform Committee and Presidential Inauguration Committee, among others.

In March 2008, she was elected National women Leader of the party.

 

December 25, 2011.

 Press Statement

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje on behalf of the National Working Committee (NWC) wishes to condemn in strong terms the spate of bombings that claimed several lives before and during this period of Christmas celebrations.  

 

2.       The PDP deeply regrets the loss of lives and properties in this senseless carnage which no doubt has brought untold hardship, pain  and sorrow to all the people affected during this period that Nigerians are suppose to celebrate Christmas.

 

3.       We wish to once again condemn in totality this recourse to extremist ideologies in a multi-religious and multi-cultural society such as ours and urge our people to take the path of dialogue rather than violence.

 

4.       We wish to therefore call on all stakeholders, politicians and religious leaders across the country to eschew violence and support President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and the Vice President, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo to preach the message of peaceful coexistence which is a fundamental condition for sustainable democratic governance in the country.

 

5.       We call on all Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and bring to the attention of the law enforcement agencies any threat to law and order. There is no doubt we cannot advance as a people and as a democratic nation in an atmosphere of insecurity, violence and anarchy and we want to once again call on our security agencies to bring to justice all those involved in these dastardly act.

 

 

Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

National Publicity Secretary     

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