PDP Charges INEC, Security Agencies, Judiciary to Exhibit Patriotism

By Ahmad Saka

The Media Sub-Committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) 2025 National Convention has appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the judiciary to demonstrate a high sense of patriotism and professionalism in discharging their constitutional responsibilities, so as not to jeopardize the peaceful conduct of the forthcoming national convention of the party.

The committee alleged that concerns are growing among PDP supporters that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may be plotting to use judicial processes to stall or indefinitely postpone the planned convention.

In a statement made available to journalists, the committee said: “These fears are certainly not unfounded. Going by the APC’s antecedents, the possibility of using inter- and intra-party destructive elements to thwart the PDP’s November convention cannot be ruled out. Covertly and overtly, these destructive elements operating from within and outside the PDP can go to any extent to serve the selfish interests of their masters in the APC. They must be reminded that their nemesis will surely catch up with them sooner than later.”

The statement further alleged that such machinations are part of a wider plan to manipulate the 2027 general elections and enthrone a one-party system that could pave the way toward dictatorship.

While expressing cautious optimism, the committee stated: “The PDP is placing confidence in the new INEC Chairman, but it will continue to closely monitor the actions and inactions of the electoral body before, during, and after elections.”

The committee also raised concerns about possible misuse of the Nigeria Police, saying: “Given the vulnerability of the Nigeria Police to manipulation by those in power, there are genuine fears that the police could be used to prevent or disperse the forthcoming lawful political assembly.”

It called on all relevant institutions to act responsibly, saying: “The Nigerian judiciary, INEC, the Nigeria Police, and all other organizations responsible for the conduct of elections must exhibit professionalism, fairness, and equity to all political parties.”

According to the PDP committee, a strong and vibrant opposition is essential to a healthy democracy. “In an ideal democratic setting, opposition serves as an invigorating tonic that checks excesses of the ruling party and proffers alternative solutions. Where the opposition is strangulated, the voices of the people are effectively stifled.”

The statement added that many Nigerians now suspect that the APC is intent on using key democratic institutions to perpetuate its hold on power. “Institutions such as the judiciary, INEC, the police, and other law enforcement agencies risk becoming tools of manipulation in the hands of the ruling party.”

It warned: “They must remember that they will be called to account for their deeds—here or hereafter, or both. Their refusal to abide by rules and their selfish actions could truncate the nation’s democratic evolution and plunge the country into chaos. They must discharge their duties with the fear of God and in the best interest of Nigeria and Nigerians.”

The committee also called on PDP members to remain united and vigilant: “This is the time for PDP faithful to unite more than ever before, remain courageous, and protect the legacy of the party through solidarity and loyalty. Nothing should be allowed to injure the forthcoming national convention. We have fought hard and worked diligently to nurture Nigerian democracy to its current stage.”

The statement urged members not to fall for the antics of “fifth columnists and anti-democratic agents,” reminding them that the PDP remains the only truly national party that once ruled Nigeria with vision and purpose.

“The administration of President Goodluck Jonathan attests to the PDP’s quality of leadership in an era of affordability, quality life, moderate prices, humane policies, and national unity through inclusivity and open governance.”

It described the Jonathan era as “a shining example of the PDP’s versatility and collective decision-making in the national interest,” adding that the party leadership is working tirelessly to resist sabotage from state institutions or hired individuals.

 “Friendly civil society organizations and international partners are being engaged at appropriate levels to help safeguard and preserve Nigeria’s democratic culture,” the committee said.

However, when contacted for a reaction, a former member of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Alhaji Ahmad Isa Tahir, dismissed the PDP’s allegations as baseless.

According to him, “The PDP is already a dead party, and that is why Nigerians are leaving it. Their problems are internal wranglings they need to resolve instead of blaming others. They should put their house in order. The APC will win the 2027 elections.”