Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has given his word to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faithful in the state, affirming his loyalty to the party and his intention to work together with fellow members in its restoration.
Speaking at the party’s caucus gathering convened at the newly established party headquarters in Umuahia, the former Governor emphasized the imperative of cohesive action among members to expedite the party’s resurgence to victory.
He reiterated that the departure of certain former aides and prominent figures of the PDP to alternative political entities is solely their individual decision.
He said, “We must all take individual responsibility for our performance in the 2023 elections even as our party is going through self cleansing at the moment. I will remain in PDP and will never be found wanting in my responsibilities to our party and its rebuilding process.
“Those who want to leave will leave no matter what you do but loyalty is also about the realization that at some point this party has been good to you. It is now time for sacrifice especially from those who previously benefitted from our party in one way or another as we must all join hands to reposition it.”
Beginning his remarks, the state PDP Chairman, Honorable Asiforo Okere, extended gratitude to committed members who have remained steadfast in their support for the party, particularly in the aftermath of the 2023 elections. He emphasized the enduring strength of the party, noting that despite the gubernatorial election loss held concurrently with the state House of Assembly polls, the PDP maintains a substantial majority in the legislative assembly.
Read also: I Predicted The Peter Obi Effect Before Elections — Ikpeazu
He disclosed that the National Working Conmittee of the party has extended the tenures of elected ward executives by 3 months in acting capacity and the constitution of 3 committees to handle Peace and Reconciliation, Way Forward and Finance.
Also speaking, the Senator representing Abia Central, Col. Austin Akobundu, stated that while people were free to leave and join a political party, the PDP in Abia State is a movement that nobody can kill.
Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, an elder statesman and member of the PDP Board of Trustees, called for unity and dismissed the idea of pointing fingers, asserting the cohesion within the party. He emphasized the collective learning journey embarked upon by both leaders and members following the events of 2023, emphasizing the necessity for preparedness to bounce back.
“It is now time to reposition the party and ensure that young members find comfort and space to contribute to the party and leadership in the state.”
Other members of the caucus who attended the meeting include the immediate past Deputy Governor of Abia State, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, PDP governorship candidate at the 2023 elections, Chief Okey Ahiwe, former and serving PDP members of Abia State House of Assembly led by Hon Solomon Akpulonu, members of the National and State Working Committees as well as invited stakeholders.