PDP ex-ministers celebrate Makarfi’s victory

PEOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) Former Ministers Forum has praised the Judiciary as the bastion of democracy over the Supreme Court’s judgement which restored the National Caretaker Committee (NCC) led by Senator Ahmed Makarfi as the authentic national leadership of the party. 

Addressing newsmen after an emergency meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, the chairman of the forum and former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, described the case as “one of the most celebrated cases of our time,” adding that it was in line with the wishes of party members.

Flanked by about 10 former ministers, he thanked the Supreme Court for the judgement, saying that it has established itself as being able to rise to any challenge in critical times.

He said: “The judgement is hope for democracy. The Opposition will continue to survive. Without opposition government won’t be able to sit up and do the work that is expected of them.”

The forum hailed Makarfi for resoluteness and steadfastness, and he congratulated other organs of the party, staff of the party and the press. 

He particularly praised staff of the party for standing with the NCC throughout the duration of the crisis. 

Turaki stated: “We urge the committee to make necessary arrangement to consolidate the gains. Bring all members back to the fold.

“In our last last press briefing we said no matter the outcome of the judgement that there is no winner or loser. This temporary setback should not be seen as excuse to allowed the unnecessary gap to continue.

“We have to be more united strengthened because we have more challenges ahead of us as we move towards 2019.

On their advice for Sheriff, he said “For Sheriff, who is my brother and friend, I know he is a democrat. I remember that on more than one occasion, I have heard him say he will do abide with the decision of the court. 

“I will encourage him to do that and to talk to his members to come back home. Judgement has been given and it has settled all the issues.

“The committee has a mandate they are working on which is to oversee credible convention.

“Yes as ministers forum we have advise to give them but not on the media. We will advise on the best way and manner. But I am sure the caretaker committee won’t disappoint Nigerians.”