Damilola Oyedele in Abuja
Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, has said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will emerge stronger from the protracted leadership crises bedeviling it since 2015.
Speaking at an expanded caucus of the party in Markurdi, Benue State yesterday, Mark expressed his determination to remain in the party despite the circumstances.
According to a statement issued by his Special Assistant (Media) Mr. Paul Mumeh, Mark also noted that those leaving the party, are defectors without political ideology.
“No matter the difficulties and challenges, I will remain in the PDP. I was convinced about the party’s ideology to among other things, keep Nigeria united, progressive, peaceful and a nation where every citizen is free to live and pursue his or her legitimate ambition without fear of molestation or intimidation in any part before I joined in 1998,” Mark said.
“PDP will come out stronger from this crisis. Those cross carpeting at will , have no direction. They have no respect for political ideology,” he added, and described the cross carpeting as a disservice to democracy.
He added that democracy can only be sustained by consistency to political ideologies.
Speaking further on the leadership crises, Mark said the problems have not been resolved as some of the contenders refuse to open up their minds to reconciliation.
He also spoke on the approaching local government elections in Benue State.
“I want you to go to the field and work hard for the election. We must say no to any electoral malpractices. You must not allow them to manipulate the process. We crave for a free, fair and credible election so that the wish of the people will prevail.”
The Chairman of the Benue State chapter of the PDP, Chief John Ngbede, urged members of the party to disregard rumors of disintegration of the party.
“The PDP is alive. We are still strong and we can win elections. We have learnt from our past mistakes and we are back, strong and better,” he said.
