The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been grappling with internal turmoil, and according to re-elected South-South Zonal Vice Chairman Dan Orbih, the crisis is entirely self-inflicted. Speaking at the South-South Zonal Congress in Calabar on Saturday, Orbih didn’t mince words as he addressed the root causes of the party’s challenges and called for urgent reforms.
A Crisis of Disregard for the Constitution
Orbih pointed out that the party’s constitution has been repeatedly ignored, with a handful of members prioritizing personal interests over the collective good. This disregard, he argued, has led to the current state of disarray within the PDP.
“The power to elect new officers of the party is not subject to anything but the constitution,” Orbih emphasized. He stressed that adherence to the party’s guidelines is non-negotiable if the PDP is to regain its strength and relevance.
A Call for Sacrifice and Renewal
The Zonal Vice Chairman urged party members to make the necessary sacrifices to revive and strengthen the PDP. He called for the election of officers who would not only uphold the party’s constitution but also demonstrate integrity and a fear of God.
“We must start rebuilding the party from here,” Orbih declared. He emphasized that the party’s revival hinges on electing leaders who are committed to its principles and values.
Rebuilding Trust and Unity
Orbih also addressed the issue of personal relationships within the party, noting that the PDP cannot dictate who members associate with. “The party cannot dictate who an individual should associate with, nor determine their friends or enemies,” he said.
This statement underscores the need for unity and mutual respect among party members, even as they work to resolve internal conflicts and rebuild trust.
The Path Forward
Orbih’s speech at the South-South Zonal Congress serves as a wake-up call for the PDP. His message is clear: the party must return to its foundational principles, prioritize the constitution, and elect leaders who are committed to its revival.
As the PDP navigates this critical period, the words of Dan Orbih remind members that the power to rebuild lies in their hands. The question now is whether they will rise to the occasion and take the necessary steps to restore the party’s former glory.
