In the continued contest for control of the state party structure, Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has secured the support of the People’s Democratic Party youth leaders in the state.
The governor however reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the “soul of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state”.
During a courtesy visit to Government House on Sunday, Governor Fubara made this statement to members of the PDP Youth Leaders Forum.
In order to guarantee the party’s continuous strength and relevance, the governor underlined the importance of loyalty, solidarity, and perseverance.
“On our part, we are doing our best in the state to ensure that the true soul of the party is kept alive. And when I say the true soul, you understand that we are not adulterated—we are the true PDP, and we remain PDP. We are doing everything to make sure we stand strong.”
He acknowledged challenges within the party and explained that some decisions might have been misunderstood but were necessary to uphold good governance.
“There have been instances where our loyalty has been questioned, but desperate situations require desperate measures”
“So, maybe a few things we have done in the course of ensuring that we continue good governance might have been misinterpreted. However, that does not mean we are not PDP. We must ensure that our government moves forward.”
The governor also appealed for collective efforts to address internal party issues and promote national unity, stressing the importance of preserving Nigeria’s stability.
“We must all try as much as we can to ensure that the house remains standing because if the house doesn’t remain, I wonder what you are coming to claim,” he noted.
Fubara praised the PDP Youth Leaders Forum for their initiative, reassured them of the support of his administration, and expressed confidence in the role that young leaders will play in the party’s rebirth.
“It’s not going to be an easy task, but we will support you to ensure you succeed.”
The governor also urged party members to set aside ethnic and religious differences and work collectively toward the progress of the PDP and the nation at large.
Governor Fubara’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and unity of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was praised by Jamilu Ali Kalshingi, the Chairman of the PDP Youth Leaders Forum.
Kalshingi was pleased by the recent court rulings that upheld Rivers State’s local government chairmen’s election and declared the PDP congresses invalid.
He described Governor Fubara’s concentration and fortitude in the face of political difficulties as outstanding and promised the PDP Youth Forum’s assistance in the continued efforts to rebuild the party’s strength and unity.