PDP Youths Protest Chieftain’s Remark Ahead AMAC Council Polls
PDP Youths Demand Recognition Ahead Council Elections
Tensions flared within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja following controversial remarks by a party chieftain, Hon. Musa Ali. During a recent stakeholders’ meeting held at the PDP State Secretariat, Ali allegedly stated he could secure victory in the forthcoming Area Council elections without the involvement of the party’s youth wing.
This comment sparked outrage among the youth members, particularly those from the City Centre Ward in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), who have since organized protests and demanded an official apology and reassurance of their relevance in party affairs.
Ward Chairman Calls for Unity
In response to the unrest, the PDP Ward Chairman, Hon. Rowland Isiramen, stepped forward to pacify the aggrieved youths. He emphasized the indispensable role of young people in the party’s structure and electoral success.
“The party cannot succeed without your involvement,” Isiramen said during a press briefing. “We hear your concerns, and I assure you they will be addressed accordingly. You are the backbone of our grassroots mobilization, and your energy is critical to the PDP’s future.”
His words offered a temporary reprieve, though many youths continued to express their frustration over being sidelined.
Youth Leaders Speak Out
Several youth leaders publicly condemned Hon. Ali’s remarks, viewing them as dismissive and demoralizing. Moses Eze, a prominent PDP youth coordinator, voiced his concerns.
“We are the ones mobilizing, canvassing, and energizing the base. To be told we are not needed is a slap in the face,” Eze said. “Our contributions are not symbolic—they are strategic.”
Felix Mansaw, another youth leader, echoed the sentiment and warned that such comments could have severe electoral consequences for the party.
“Alienating the youth vote could turn the tide against the PDP, especially if opposition parties seize the opportunity,” Mansaw warned. “We are not asking for favors—we are demanding respect.”
Plans for Peaceful Demonstration
Despite the reassurance from the party leadership, the protesting youths have announced a peaceful demonstration scheduled for Friday, May 16, at the PDP Secretariat. The protest aims to secure a formal response from party leadership and demand an apology from Hon. Ali.
Their demands include a reaffirmation of the youth wing’s relevance and inclusion in campaign planning for the Area Council elections.
Internal Tensions Could Affect Party’s Outlook
Observers believe the unrest could harm the PDP’s chances in AMAC if not swiftly addressed. Political analysts note that youth engagement is pivotal in determining election outcomes, particularly at the grassroots level.
The party’s national leadership has yet to issue an official statement, but insiders suggest that mediation efforts are already underway behind closed doors.
Conclusion
As the AMAC Area Council elections draw near, the PDP faces a crucial moment. How the party resolves this internal conflict could shape its electoral prospects. The active involvement of youths has historically driven political momentum in Nigeria, and sidelining this demographic may prove costly.
For now, all eyes remain on the PDP leadership as they attempt to calm tensions and restore unity ahead of the polls.
RELATED
