Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has reaffirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, continues to stand as the biggest political force in sub-Saharan Africa.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday during a meeting of the PDP National Convention Protocol Committee, Fintiri said that beyond his faith, the PDP has been instrumental in shaping every major success he has recorded in life.
According to him, preparations are in full swing for the party’s forthcoming national convention slated for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, with the compilation of delegates’ lists already underway.
“I want to reassure you that, on our side, we are fully committed and will not leave any stone unturned. We are putting in our best and making sacrifices to ensure a successful convention and battle,” Fintiri said.
“The chairman (Caleb Mutfwang, governor of Plateau) said I will be in Ibadan for one week. I may be there for three weeks.
“Apart from Islam, PDP is the next association that has given me everything I have achieved in life. I will forever remain grateful to this party.
“Not under our leadership, not during our time, will we let this party down. As you can see from the members’ commitment, everyone is determined.”
The governor pledged that the convention would be credible and transparent, adding that the new National Working Committee members to emerge would be individuals of integrity and competence.
“When we parade them, the country will know that the PDP is still alive,” he said.
“We are not going to deny anybody the chance to contest. I will personally ensure that the screening process is transparent.
“Everybody who has purchased forms will be screened as long as there are no encumbrances in their documents or records.
“Go and test your popularity in the field because we are already finalising the names of the delegates.
“If you feel you are popular, go to the field and test your strength. In the end, those supported by the majority will emerge victorious.
“People are beginning to trust and show commitment to what we are doing. At the end of the day, we will provide the kind of responsible leadership required to steer this party forward.”
Reiterating his earlier stance, Fintiri described the PDP as the “biggest and largest party in sub-Saharan Africa,” urging members to remain focused and committed to ensuring the convention’s success.
On his part, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, who chairs the convention’s protocol subcommittee, lauded the level of enthusiasm and mobilisation across the country.
He noted that the energy and unity being demonstrated ahead of the Ibadan convention reflect the PDP’s determination to reclaim its position as Nigeria’s foremost opposition party.
PDP still Africa’s biggest political brand — Gov Fintiri