The Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum (PDP-GF) has strongly dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for condemning its recent meeting in Gusau, Zamfara State, just days after deadly attacks claimed many lives in the area. Emmanuel Agbo, Director-General of the PDP-GF, described ADC’s comments as “irresponsible” and accused the party of seeking political gain at the expense of human suffering.
Agbo said, “Playing politics and trying to gain political capital with human lives isn’t our stock in trade, as is characteristic of the ADC.” He stressed that the PDP meeting was a scheduled event, aimed at addressing critical national issues including the security crisis, and not a spur-of-the-moment political rally.
The ADC had criticised the PDP governors for holding a political meeting in Zamfara shortly after the killings, calling it “insensitive” and accused the ruling parties of caring only about power rather than the people’s suffering. Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, stated that the images of PDP governors smiling in full ceremonial attire amidst bloodshed sites were “totally out of place.”
However, Emmanuel Agbo pointed out that the PDP forum used the meeting to condemn ongoing killings in Zamfara, Katsina, Plateau, Niger, Benue, and beyond. He praised Zamfara State’s efforts in combating insecurity and called on the federal government to intensify protection of lives and properties.
Agbo also remarked that the PDP has grown more focused and “formidable” since members left for the ADC, suggesting that the new party has shown a lack of unity and national cohesion.
He extended an olive branch to the ADC, saying, “The PDP still has our arms and doors widely open to them if they genuinely act remorsefully in repentance.”
