PDP slams dissenters as media headline seekers

Nigeria’s ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Publicity Secretary, Mr Olisa Metuh, on Sunday accused desperate politician of exaggerating challenges of the party.

Metuh, who made the accusation in a statement in Abuja, said that such politicians were; “looking for cheap popularity through sensationalism in the media.

He added that the problem in the party was a challenge which could be resolved within the ambit of the party`s crisis resolution mechanism.

Metuh assured members that the party leadership was still capable of resolving the party`s challenges, and urged them to be more committed to its progress.

He expressed optimism that the party would emerge stronger from its present challenges.

The PDP spokesman urged the party members to utilise the window of dialogue and reconciliation offered by the party leadership.

This, he said, was necessary to avoid playing into the hands of those who did not wish the nation or its democracy well.

He further added that portraying President Goodluck Jonathan in bad light by some party members was not necessary because as members of one big family, no challenge was insurmountable.

“This tactics is antithetical to democracy, but not an unfamiliar rule of engagement. However, it is important that we avoid over-stretching it,’’ Metuh said.

He maintained that such habit should be stopped to avoid playing into the waiting hands of those desperate to incite the people and destroy the country`s destiny.

Metuh said that it was regrettable that the easiest way by which most politicians gain prominence today, was to attack the president and the party leadership not on issues of governance.

He added that the nation would benefit the more should detractors of the president pick him or the party on issues of development.

This, according to him, will enrich the practice of democracy in the country.

He said that “while the inconsequential makes the banner, the essentials and the substantial in the consistent though quiet transformation of the nation are tucked away in obscure riders.’’

Metuh charged the media as critical building block of democracy which had stood firm across the decades not to relent in its efforts of projecting positivity.

He further pledged the party`s support to Jonathan as the leader and symbol of the party in government.

“We shall neither waver nor allow narrow sentiments stand in the way of the absolute resolve of our great party to better the lots of all Nigerians.’’