Read the press statement below...
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it is deeply concerned about the
unfolding political events and developments in the South East and South
South of Nigeria.
The PDP also stated that it is not comfortable with the methods being
applied by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government in
handling of restive youths in the South South and South East
geo-political zones, who are agitating under the Biafra movement, and
urged the President to personally intervene as the matter affects the
territorial integrity of Nigeria.
The party said it is concerned that the Federal Government and its
agencies have failed to approach the situation with the inclusiveness
and seriousness it deserves, but have instead been resorting to the use
of security forces.
PDP National Youth Leader, Hon. Abdullahi MaiBasira said in a statement
on Saturday that President Buhari and his party should be held to
account for the escalation of the agitation, which threatens the unity
and national security interests of Nigeria as an indivisible entity.
The PDP also urged the ruling party to ensure and guarantee an inclusive
administration that will promote harmony among all sections of the
country.
The party further notes the seemingly lack of any clear-cut policy
direction that concerns the development, mainstreaming and inclusion of
young people in the country by the Federal Government, a worrisome issue
that brings to question APC’s campaign promise to generate and give 3
million jobs annually to Nigerian Youths.
“The fact that none of the President's ministerial appointees confirmed
by Senate is below 40 years also puts to question APC's belief for the
next generation of leaders, mentorship and transfer of responsibility.
So far, the resultant effect of this lack of clear-cut policy is the
stagnation of the economy and laying-off of thousands of people from
their jobs.
“Rather than the use of force as an option which usually fails as a
solution in this type of self inflicted socio political problem,
President Buhari should as a matter of national interest and practical
necessity, make haste to call representatives and leaders of the South
East for discussions before the situation deteriorates”, the party said.
The PDP said President Buhari and his party should know that sidelining
any section of the country is bound to generate unhealthy relations
among all integral parts of the Nigerian people.
The party said that cohesion, development, prosperity and unity should
be paramount in government policy and warned that unless and until all
sections of the country are accommodated, certain sections will
experience civil tension and agitations as a means of expressing their
discontent.
“Finally, as young people who believe in the present and future
stability of Nigeria; we urge President Buhari to see himself as the
father of the nation and try to open his heart to all by carrying
everybody along and through that, create enabling environment for peace,
progress and development in the interest of all”, the statement said.
Signed
Hon. Abdullahi Maibasira.
National Youth Leader