By Ibrahim Muhammad
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jigawa State has faulted the recent endorsement of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, by the Northern Caucus of the PDP as the unopposed candidate for the position of National Chairman.
The State Chairman of the party, Hon. Babandi Ibrahim Gumel, made this known in an interview with newsmen on Saturday, describing the decision as unfair and contrary to the interest of stakeholders from the North-West zone.
Hon. Gumel explained that during its meeting last Monday, the Northern PDP Caucus had resolved that the position of National Chairman should be zoned to the North-West, and subsequently directed stakeholders in the zone to present a qualified candidate for the post.
“Based on this directive, we agreed to hold our meeting on Thursday by 8:00 p.m. under the chairmanship of the Zamfara State Governor. However, to our dismay, on Wednesday—before our scheduled meeting—those who asked us to nominate a candidate from the North-West went ahead to endorse a candidate of their choice,” he said.
He further disclosed that former Jigawa State Governor, Dr. Sule Lamido, was not properly informed about the caucus meeting, saying, “Our leader, Dr. Sule Lamido, was only notified about the meeting an hour before it commenced, late at night.”
Hon. Gumel also questioned the process that led to the endorsement, noting that none of those nominated had purchased the party’s nomination form to formally express interest in the position.
“Our leader was suggested by party chieftains at the national level and other stakeholders as the right person who can revive the PDP from its slumber,” he added.
He lamented that the North-West leaders were denied the opportunity to carry out the task assigned to them, stating, “We are now waiting to see whether our resolution will be respected.”
The state chairman emphasized that their major concern is ensuring that the PDP is led by a capable and visionary leader who can reposition the party and overcome its current challenges.
“We have been in this party for the last 26 years, and we do not want anything that can destabilize it. We will continue to work for the emergence of the right person to lead the PDP for the unity and progress of both the party and the country,” he concluded.
