PDP crisis: Drama in Abuja as ‘rebel’ governors consider Jonathan’s peace attempt

Amaechi ceasefire

by Akan Ido

The meeting between President Goodluck Jonathan and governors of the Peoples Democratic Party who staged a walkout weeks ago during the party’s mini-convention in Abuja has been described as ‘fruitful.’

The president convened the meeting to iron out the contentious issues mitigating against peace in the party and to discuss ways of amicably resolving the crisis.

Reports indicate that not much progress was made in this regard but it was unanimously agreed by all those present at the 5-hour meeting that any form of escalation should be avoided.

According to the Niger state governor, Babangida Aliyu who read a statement after the meeting saying, “With a view to resolving the recent crisis in our party and sequel to the number of meetings convened by leaders and stakeholders and the governors of Adamawa, Niger, Rivers, Kwara, Sokoto, Jigawa, Akwa Ibom, Kogi, Kano and Cross Rivers states met with the President, the Vice -President and the chairman of the BOT and extensively deliberated on various issues over a three -day period.

“The meetings were cordial and deliberations fruitful with a clear commitments on all sides to resolve all issues raised at the meetings.

“The meeting also called on all parties to sheath their swords and avoid further inflammatory comments on issues particularly during the course of our deliberations as we have all agreed to resolve all the differences.

“In the interim, all parties have accepted to commence immediate action and agreed towards complete resolution of all matters and continue to meet until all processes toward reconciliation are concluded amicably.”

Reports say the ‘new PDP’ governors initially expressed reluctance at issuing a statement due to fear of manipulation in the media by the president’s team but they were assured that no such thing would occur. Both parties subsequently agreed to the substance of the statement, which was reportedly drafted by Imoke, in the interest of peace.

The governors present at the Aso Rock meeting were Rotimi Amaechi, Babangida Aliyu, Liyel Imoke, Godswill Akpabio, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Sule Lamido.

Others present at the meeting were the PDP BoT chairman, Tony Anenih and Vice President Namadi Sambo.

Another meeting has been slated for October 7.

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