- Key Point: Former PDP Speakers support legal action against defectors.
- Main Issue: Concern over APC allegedly weakening multi-party democracy.
- Action Taken: PDP is suing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and others.
- Warning: The forum warns against attempts to impose a one-party system.
- Call to Action: Opposition parties urged to unite against the ruling party.
Defection Drama: PDP Fires Back!
The Forum of former Speakers elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially declared its support for the party’s legal battle against elected officials who switched allegiances to other parties. This move comes as tensions rise over what the PDP sees as attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to undermine the opposition.
Is APC Killing Multi-Party Democracy?
According to the forum, the recent wave of defections from the PDP to the APC is a calculated strategy by the ruling party to cripple Nigeria’s multi-party system. They claim the APC is intimidating opposition figures into submission, a move that threatens the very foundation of democracy. The forum voiced these concerns in a communique issued by its Chairman, Rt. Hon. Inuwa Garba, after an emergency meeting in Abuja.
Taking Defectors to Court: A Bold Move
Remember when Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other elected officials jumped ship to the APC? Well, the PDP’s Acting National Chairman, Ilyas Damagum, announced the party would sue these defectors, aiming to reclaim the party’s mandate. The ex-speakers are fully on board with this plan.
“Constitution is Ineffective”: A Harsh Reality?
Garba didn’t hold back, stating that the constitution is almost being sidelined by key actors in the democracy itself. He said the difference between a military junta and democratic government is first of all the constitution.
Insecurity Crisis: A Nation Under Siege
The forum didn’t just address political defections. They also condemned the widespread insecurity plaguing the nation, particularly the horrific killings in Benue, Plateau, and Borno States. They offered their condolences to the affected families and called for action.
What’s Next for the PDP?
The communique also included these key recommendations:
- The forum supports the party’s decision to organize a national convention and urges them to stick to the schedule.
- A national retreat for major stakeholders is needed to discuss the way forward.
- Opposition parties in the National Assembly must unite to provide a viable opposition.
- The government must reconsider its economic policies to improve the living standards of Nigerians.
The Judiciary Under Scrutiny
The forum raised serious concerns about the judiciary, suggesting that the constitution is being ignored and that the rule of law is under threat. This is a major red flag for the health of Nigerian democracy.
Economic Hardship: Nigerians Are Suffering
Finally, the forum expressed sympathy for Nigerians struggling with the current economic hardship caused by the APC-led government. They called on the government to rethink its economic policies and prioritize the well-being of its citizens. This issue is super important. According to the World Bank, many Nigerians are living in poverty, and economic reforms are crucial.
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