The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday said it was saddled by the sudden exit of former President Olusegun Obasanjo from the party, insisting however, that it would not distracted from the coming elections.
In a statement by Olisah Metuh, National Publicity Secretary of the party, PDP said: “The leadership Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has received the news of
the decision of former President Olusegun Obasanjo to withdraw his
membership of our great party. We have also carefully examined the
circumstances and the reasons adduced for this unfortunate decision.
“While we concede to the inalienable rights of every citizen to hold
opinion and to decide who to associate with, we are however deeply
saddened that Chief Obasanjo, a revered leader of our party, our first
Presidential flagbearer whom the PDP offered the platform to rule our
nation for eight years, could decide to abandon this party at this
critical point in time.
“This is especially as Chief Obasanjo, who was also the Chairman of the
highest advisory organ of the PDP, the Board of Trustees (BoT)
discountenanced all pleas by elders and leaders of our great party with
regard to his reservations on certain issues within our fold.
“Many Nigerians are still bewildered as to what manner of provocation
could have led a former President to lose his composure and go to the
extent of tearing the membership card of the party that he once led.
“Indeed, the PDP is hugely at loss as to how the decision and action of
the former President who had enjoyed the benefits of being elected to
the highest position of leadership will assist in deepening our
democracy and stabilizing the polity.
“It is our considered opinion that no matter the provocation, a
statesmanly disposition from a person of Chief Obasanjo’s status could
have encouraged our citizens and help in stabilizing system.
“We believe however, that what this country needs now is patriotic
actions that engender national unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence
of our people irrespective of political, ethnic and religious
persuasions. The overall interest of our nation and wellbeing of our
citizens must remain paramount and above all personal and group
interests.
“Finally, we direct all our members across the country to remain focused
on our campaigns and not to be distracted on this issue. With an array
of credible candidates led by our Presidential flagbearer, President
Goodluck Jonathan, we are sure that we will emerge victorious come March
28 and April 11, 2015 general elections.”