June 04, (THEWILL) – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed concern over the quick removal of petrol subsidy and the lack of adequate consultation by the Federal Government before doing so.
It, therefore, urged the Federal Government to engage in genuine dialogue with organised labour and other stakeholders to reach a fair and reasonable solution on the issue.
This was part of the resolution of the party at its one-day retreat held in Bauchi, the Bauchi State capital on Saturday.
Also arising from the retreat, the PDP called on members of minority political parties in the National Assembly to unite on issues of national concern.
The party said it encourages coalition-building with other opposition parties to form a minority caucus and strong alliance for effective national development.
Other decisions reached by the party as contained in the Communiqué signed by the Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, include the desire for party unity as there was emphasis on fostering unity both within the party and across the nation; agreement by members on the need for constant engagement and focus on issues concerning their welfare.
The PDP Chairman further said that “the retreat featured discussions around good governance, democratic accountability, the party’s role in opposition, the prevalent poverty, the decline in the quality of life of Nigerians, ongoing post-election judicial processes, and the necessity of returning Nigeria to proper constitutional governance.”
He said the party agreed to congratulate all elected PDP officials and urge them to deliver quality governance to the Nigerian people at all levels and to support party members and candidates in various tribunals to seek redress for electoral injustices and defend victorious candidates.
“The judiciary was urged to respect and apply the Electoral Act impartially.
“PDP legislators and Governors are to collaborate as partners in development, avoiding conflict that undermines party effectiveness; identified key issues for legislative focus include insecurity, unemployment, inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and strategies for national development.
“Governors and legislators are to respect and contribute to the success of the party,” the party said at the meeting.
The Communiqué further disclosed that the party stressed the need for improved communication and synergy between the elected NASS members and the PDP, ensuring lawmakers fulfil their responsibilities in line with party values and national interest.
Ambassador Damagum disclosed that notable attendees include Governors and members of the National Assembly elected under the PDP, members of the PDP National Working Committee, members of the Board of Trustees, and other PDP Stakeholders.
Speaking with THEWILL, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, said all the 13 PDP Governors including Engr. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, were present at the retreat.
AYO ESAN, has been actively reporting and analyzing political events for different newspapers for over 18 years. He has also successfully covered national and state elections in Nigeria since the inception of this democracy in 1999.
