Abuja – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday in Abuja inaugurated caretaker committees for its Kebbi and Borno state chapters as part of preparation for the party’s congresses in the two states.
Inaugurating the committees, the National Chairman of PDP, Sen. Ali Modu Sheriff, urged the committees to consult with all stakeholders in the states to ensure successful congresses.
He said “we want free and fair congresses in the two states, and the only way to do this is to allow the people to choose their leaders by themselves.”
He directed that the party’s new membership cards be used for the congresses.
Responding, the Chairman, Kebbi Caretaker Committee, Mr Ibrahim Gusau, assured that the committee would not disappoint the party in conducting a credible congress in the state.
He said “I assure you that we will not disappoint you in settling what is going on in Kebbi.
“We will ensure that at the end of the day, the overall interest of the party is achieved,” Gusau said.
Alhaji Rilwanu Dauda, the PDP Caretaker Committee Chairman in Borno, also assured that the committee would work to achieve credible congress in the state.
He said “with your support, we are sure to come up with credible and acceptable leaders in the state.”
The ceremony was however, obstructed for some minutes after the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, fell when he attempted to sit on a swivel chair.
Metuh, who was assisted out of the National Working Committee hall, was rushed to the National Hospital, Abuja, where he is presently receiving medical attention.
Mr Richard Ihediwa, the Special Assistant to Metuh, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that Metuh was already receiving medical attention at the intensive care unit of the hospital.
Meanwhile, Mrs Kema Chikwe, the PDP National Women Leader, said she would not contest for any position in the party’s forthcoming national convention scheduled for May 21.
Chikwe, who spoke on the sidelines of the inauguration, said she had served the country and the party in different capacities.
She added that “I believe that people can always serve at different levels, even privately; I believe that other women can serve as well, so I will give them the opportunity.”
She listed some of her achievements to include e-women network, increasing the women voice in politics, as well as mobilising strategic partnership with international organisations for women in politics.
She expressed optimism that the person coming behind her would build on her achievements. (NAN)