Agitations: PDP backs Nigeria’s restructuring

THE National Caretaker Committee (NCC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its weight behind the call for restructuring the basis of Nigeria’s unity and has therefore called for the consideration of the framework within which the discussion of restructuring would take place.

It has also posited that there is nothing wrong with agitations and expression of grievances as they are vital ingredients to sustain democracy and the rule of law.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the Chairman of the PDP NCC, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, observed that it is a good thing that the Senate has called for the report of the 2013 National Conference as a possible tool to cement the nation’s bond.

While noting the agitations and counter agitations in parts of the country, Makarfi said they were not the problem themselves but the manner in which they were made.

He recalled that the PDP administration made efforts to resolve various agitations in the country by convening the 2005 and 2015 national conferences but could not do much before it was ousted from power.

Makarfi stated: “It is however gratifying to note that the current Senate has requested the Executive arm to resubmit the Report of the 2014 Conference for further action.

“It is our hope that this will be used to accelerate the process of further cementing the unity and functionality of Nigeria.

“Like I said earlier, the PDP has no problem with agitations; in fact, we respect them and regard them as vehicles through which all segments vent their legitimate feelings.

“But we want to urge all of our people that in trying to draw attention to their yearnings and aspirations, respect for one another and the realisation that our rights do not include encroachment into, and infringement on the legitimate rights and dignity of others, should guide our conduct.

“As Nigerians and a people, we cannot run away from talking to one another but this should be on the basis of mutual respect, confidence and even empathy.

“This will enable us to have a proper understanding of the feelings and yearnings of each other and properly appreciating where we all are coming from, as individual groups and as a whole.

“Nigeria as a federation has come a long way and it is our duty as individuals and a whole to ensure that it endures; and indeed surpasses the dreams of our founding  fathers.

“Every step we take must be, as the Americans would say, ‘towards a more perfect union’. We are therefore free, to at any point in time to take a look at the structures of the union, not its basis, and effect whatever corrections we collectively agree are necessary.

“It is in this context that we view calls from some quarters for the restructuring of our own concept and practice of federalism.”

The party boss suggested that areas needing improvement in the federation should be looked into.

Makarfi added: “It is therefore not out of place for any or all segment(s) to come up with ideas that they believe will strengthen the structures of our federalism with a view to restructuring it in such a way that it serves all of us and not just some of us.

“Such exercise should take a very good and critical look at all the structures and institutions. as well as how they operate with a view to giving them a new sense of direction in tune with current best practices, though, as with all societies, taking due consideration to our peculiarities as a people.

“Whatever comes out of such exercise, so long as it is the aggregate agreement of our people, we should get to work to ensure that it works.”

The party chairman praised acting President Yemi Osinbajo over how he has handled the tension in the country, saying: “The Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo deserves commendation for the steps he has so far taken to douse the tension occasioned by the altercation, but we call on all government to build on that by ensuring that it’s programmes, policies and steps are tailored in such a way and manner that no section of this country is given the impression that it doesn’t count.”

Makarfi debunked claims that the PDP NCC had tried to influence the Supreme Court on the pending ruling in the party’s leadership tussle before the apex court, saying that the story was planted in the media by detractors.