Crisis Erupts in Katsina PDP Over Congress Preparations

top-news

The Katsina State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is currently facing a severe internal crisis, as members of the newly formed caretaker committee have accused their chairman of sabotaging the party's preparations for upcoming congresses.

During a press conference in Abuja, the disgruntled committee members revealed that around 7,101 potential candidates who intended to purchase forms to participate in the congresses have been blocked from doing so. Hon. Ibrahim Abdullahi Tafashiya, a committee member leading the aggrieved faction, criticized the chairman's leadership, claiming it jeopardizes the party's unity and effectiveness.

"The Katsina State PDP is in jeopardy due to the maladministration of its affairs by this leadership," Tafashiya stated. He highlighted that since the release of the timetable and guidelines for the 2024 ward, local government, and state congresses by the national headquarters, necessary procedural measures had not been implemented.

Tafashiya further noted the ongoing divisions within the party since before the 2023 general election, exacerbated by the chairman's alignment with a specific interest group and failure to reconcile internal conflicts. He emphasized that key preparatory activities, such as membership drives and register updates, were neglected.

The committee accused the chairman of withholding the forms, stating, "We were informed that the forms are with the Caretaker Committee Chairman, taken about three weeks ago without our knowledge." They appealed to the National Working Committee (NWC) to intervene and resolve the issue to ensure the party's progress and success.

Detailing their struggles, the committee members recounted how aspirants from various local government areas found the PDP headquarters deserted when attempting to purchase forms. Despite their efforts, they were unable to secure the necessary forms and had to escalate their complaints to the party's national authorities.

In their appeal, the committee urged the NWC to take immediate action to address the crisis, ensure due process in the sale of forms, and maintain the party's unity and integrity. "All we are asking for is a level playing field," they concluded.