The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Youth Frontier has made a compelling case for a broader selection process for the party’s National Chairman, emphasizing that the responsibility should extend beyond Benue State to include the entire North Central region of Nigeria. In a recent press briefing in Abuja, National Coordinator Austin Okai outlined the rationale behind this perspective, advocating for a more inclusive approach to leadership that considers qualified candidates from states such as Kwara, Kogi, Niger, and Nasarawa. Okai vehemently challenged the exclusive consideration of prominent figures from Benue, including Senators David Mark and Gabriel Suswam, arguing that strong candidates exist throughout the North Central zone who could effectively lead the PDP into the future.
Highlighting the need for a diverse selection pool, Okai presented various notable figures as potential candidates for the National Chairmanship. He specifically identified former Senate President Bukola Saraki from Kwara, former Minister of Culture and Tourism Humphrey Abba, and Philip Salawu, a former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, as capable leaders who could bring valuable experience to the role. Additionally, he pointed to Abdullahi Maibasira from Niger State and David Ombugadu from Nasarawa State, reinforcing the notion that quality leadership is not confined to just one state but is a regional asset. Okai urged that the decision regarding Ayu’s successor should integrate the input and perspectives of leaders from across the North Central zone rather than be confined to a few influential individuals based solely in Benue.
Okai underscored the importance of shared governance and representation, elaborating that the leadership structure of the PDP should reflect the capabilities of all states in the North Central region. He noted that the leadership in Benue should not take precedence as a singular authority in this decision-making process. He reminded the audience that it was the people of Benue who suspended the former National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, underscoring their right to advocate for new leadership while simultaneously calling for a collective approach to selecting the successor. Okai emphasized the critical need for fresh leadership that can rejuvenate the party and guide it effectively in upcoming electoral challenges.
Furthermore, Okai challenged the perception that Benue holds an exclusive claim to the National Chairmanship position, highlighting significant leadership roles that are already occupied by individuals from the state, such as Senator Abba Moro and Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State. His assertion places the emphasis on collaboration and unity among all stakeholders within the North Central PDP to foster a more democratic selection process. According to Okai, the party’s success hinges on a collective effort to ensure that all competent leaders are considered fairly when determining the next National Chairman.
In his message, Okai called for unity in the North Central PDP leadership, suggesting that establishing effective communication and cooperation among leaders from various states will result in a more effective and intelligent decision-making process. He warned that a narrow focus on a handful of candidates from Benue could undermine the party’s potential for growth and diversity. This perspective aligns with his overarching objective of advocating for a fair and inclusive leadership selection that is not only representative of a singular state but reflects the broader interests and capabilities within the North Central region.
As the PDP approaches this crucial moment, Okai’s message embodies a call to action for all party members to foster inclusivity, ensuring that the selection of the National Chairman is a collaborative process. He advocates for a strategic reevaluation of how leadership roles are filled within the party, pushing for recognition of the pool of talent available throughout the North Central states. In conclusion, Okai emphasized that the future success of the PDP depends on leadership that embodies the collective strength and unity of its members across the region, setting a clear path for collaboration and shared progress as they prepare for the electoral challenges ahead.
