Don’t join APC in castigating Sheriff, PDP govs beg members

Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have called on members of their party to support Ali Modu Sheriff, the new national chairman of the PDP.

Since Tuesday when he emerged the party’s leader, critics, particularly from members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), have taunted Sheriff, whom Stephen Davis, an Australian negotiator, named as one of the sponsors of Boko Haram.

Though David failed to prove the allegation, opponents of the new chairman have latched on to that to discredit him.

However, in a statement signed by Osaro Onaiwu, coordinator of the PDP governors’ forum, the governors advised their party faithful not to dwell on “just the negative narrative of the opposition party”.

They said the choice of Sheriff was in the best interest of the PDP, saying he is to complete the tenure of the north-east as specified by the party’s constitution.

The statement added that the chairman would organise a national convention for the election of substantive officers.

“It has come to our notice that some members of our great party have expressed their reservations on the emergence of the new national chairman, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff,” the statement read.

“As is expected, not everybody can be on the same page in such matters even though of the same party. We wish to appeal to our members to keep the bigger picture in mind, which is to reposition ahead of 2019 with individuals that have the track record in power play.

“It is in this regard that our esteemed members should think carefully before joining the crowd of those baying ‘death to the PDP.’ As a national party, it is important that every matter is looked at from all sides and not just the negative narrative of the opposition party.

“None of our leaders have been arraigned for terrorism related charges unlike some leaders of the ruling party; it is this we should take clear cognisance of. There is no way the international community will not, at least, have an idea of those who have aided and funded Boko Haram.

“For our party to make the expected headway, we must remain united, discuss our disagreements as a family and refrain from joining those whose desire is to see that the party’s resurgence never happens.”