Arewa PDP Forum Condemns Deputy Spokesperson Over Remarks on Ugwuanyi

By our Correspondent

The Arewa PDP Unity Forum (APUF) has faulted the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ibrahim Abdullahi, for making what it described as “reckless and disrespectful comments” about former Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its National President, Dr. Maikanti Adamu, the Forum said Abdullahi’s comments on national television were unbecoming of a senior party official. It warned that such public disparagement of respected party leaders could undermine internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Dr. Abdullahi’s statement was both unfortunate and unnecessary. Referring to a two-term governor who delivered his state for the PDP in the last election as someone ‘carrying a bag’ for anyone is an insult not only to Ugwuanyi but to the collective legacy of our party,” Adamu stated.

The group highlighted Ugwuanyi’s record in Enugu and his quiet diplomacy during the 2023 elections, noting that his leadership helped the PDP maintain political relevance in the South-East at a time when the party struggled elsewhere.

“While many states slipped from PDP control, Enugu remained steadfast under Ugwuanyi’s leadership. Those who could not even retain their local governments for the party should be the last to question his loyalty or stature,” Adamu added.

The Forum reminded the party hierarchy that senior figures deserve respect regardless of current political alignments, stressing that Abdullahi’s remarks reflected arrogance and risked deepening divisions within the PDP.

“Our national officers should serve as unifiers, not purveyors of insult. If we keep ridiculing our own, how can the Nigerian people take us seriously as a government-in-waiting?” Adamu queried.

APUF urged the PDP National Working Committee to caution its spokespersons against making statements that undermine the sacrifices of past leaders, noting that mutual respect and discipline remain vital for party stability.

“The PDP has survived various challenges for over two decades because it embraces diversity. The Deputy National Publicity Secretary should focus on strengthening structures that win elections, not attacking those who have already done so,” Adamu advised.

The Forum also reaffirmed its respect for former governors, legislators, and party elders nationwide, describing them as “living pillars of the PDP whose experience must be preserved, not discarded for media soundbites.”