Arewa Forum Condemns PDP Deputy Spokesperson Over Remarks Against Former Governor Ugwuanyi
Editor
The Arewa PDP Unity Forum (APUF) has strongly condemned the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ibrahim Abdullahi, for what it described as “reckless and disrespectful comments” against the former Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its National President, Dr. Maikanti Adamu, the Forum stated that Abdullahi’s remarks during a national television appearance were “unbecoming of a senior party official,” warning that such conduct undermines the unity and internal cohesion of the PDP 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 not only an insult to Rt. Hon. Ugwuanyi but also to the collective legacy of our party,” the statement read in part.
The Forum lauded Ugwuanyi’s leadership and contributions to the PDP’s continued relevance in the South-East, noting that his quiet diplomacy and political maturity during the 2023 elections helped the party maintain its stronghold in Enugu State at a time when it faced setbacks elsewhere.
“While several states slipped from the PDP’s control, Enugu remained steadfast under Ugwuanyi’s leadership. Those who could not secure their own local governments for the party should be the last to question his loyalty or political stature,” Dr. Adamu stated.
The Arewa PDP Unity Forum further advised the party’s national officers to exercise discretion and decorum in their public communications, emphasizing that respect for senior party figures is critical to sustaining discipline and unity within the PDP.
“Our national officers should be seen as unifiers, not as purveyors of insult. If we continue to ridicule our own leaders, we risk eroding public confidence in the PDP as a credible alternative and government-in-waiting,” the Forum cautioned.
It therefore called on the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) to caution its spokespersons against making divisive or disparaging statements that could alienate long-serving members and undermine the party’s cohesion.
“The PDP has endured for over two decades because it accommodates diverse opinions and honours those who have served it faithfully. The Deputy National Publicity Secretary should focus on strengthening party structures that win elections, rather than attacking those who have already delivered results,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its respect for former governors, legislators, and other senior figures across the country, the Forum described them as “living pillars of the PDP whose wisdom, sacrifice, and experience must be valued, not trivialised for the sake of political expediency or media soundbites.”
