Pioneer National Woman Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Iyom Josephine Anenih has appealed for peace among the warring factions in the party, saying non of them could lead a divided party to victory.
In a message to members of the PDP, Anenih reaffirmed her faith in the possibilities of the party, and in the millions of Nigerians who still look to the party for leadership, stability, and a credible alternative.
She said: “In recent years the PDP has been weakened not only by external forces but by failures within. Our National Working Committee, our Board of Trustees, our governors, and other senior leaders allowed factionalism, ego, indiscipline, and internal sabotage to undermine the party.
“At a time when Nigerians needed a strong opposition to hold government to account and to present a clear and credible alternative, we did not rise to our responsibility. We must accept this truth because only truth can rebuild trust.”
Anenih, however, applauded members of the party for their steadfastness and loyalty when leaders of the party faltered.
“Yet even as leaders faltered, our members did not. The real strength of the PDP has always been found in the ordinary men and women across this country who remained loyal despite the turmoil at the top. They endured frustration and disappointment yet refused to abandon the party. They are the reason the PDP still stands. This Convention owes its purpose to them.
“Electing a new National Executive Committee will not by itself resolve the deep fractures, suspicion, and structural weaknesses that brought us here. The challenges before us require humility, courage, and a willingness to place the party and the nation above personal ambition.
“To all contending factions and tendencies I make a sincere appeal. Sheath your swords.
“No battle against fellow party members strengthens the PDP. No faction can lead a divided party to victory.
“This Convention must be the place where old quarrels end and where all sides recommit to the collective vision that built this party twenty seven years ago,” she stressed.
Anenih, who was also a former Minister of Women Affairs, emphasized that unity without discipline is fragile and called for sanctions against those who undermine the party.
“One of our most serious failures has been the refusal to enforce the rules of the party. For too long impunity has gone unpunished and misconduct has had no consequences.
“A political party cannot survive if its constitution is treated as optional. Renewal requires accountability. Those who undermine the party must face penalties and those who uphold its values must be supported and encouraged.
“The PDP’s duty is not only to itself. It is to Nigeria. A country facing hardship, insecurity, and rising despair cannot afford a weak or confused opposition.
“The PDP must once again become the party that offers hope, clarity, and responsible leadership. Nigeria deserves nothing less.
“If we bury ego, restore discipline, rebuild trust, and recommit to service, the PDP will rise again, stronger, more united, and ready to serve the nation.
“If we fail to confront our shortcomings, the PDP will become a relic of history, a cautionary tale of how complacency and pride destroyed what was once Africas largest political party.
“As a Founding Mother of this party, I urge all delegates and leaders to make this Convention a turning point. Let it mark not only a transition in leadership but a renewal of purpose,” she added.