The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship contest in Cross River State, took a turn for the worse on Monday, when a leading contender for the coveted position of Governor, Prince Goddy Jedy Agba opted out at the twilight of the primary election.
A statement issued in Calabar by the aspirant’s Media Consultant, Phrank Shaibu said that his withdrawal was hinged on the grounds that the delegates’ congress list was fraught with irregularities.
“The party has confirmed our initial suspicion and fears that they were desperately committed to excluding Prince Goddy Jedy Agba from all democratic processes leading up the fulfillment of his gubernatorial ambition.”
“From the initial proclamation that he was not a member of the party to the cancellation of the November 1st ad hoc delegate congress, his purported suspension from the party and now, the mutilation of the delegates list, it is doubtful that the playing field for the intended Cross River State PDP Governorship primaries would be sufficiently balanced, rather it is likely to lean in favour of the outgoing state Governor’s purported choice of candidate.
The statement said further,“Anyone, that understands Nigerian politics a little should know how important it is for an incumbent State Governor to see that his successor covers his tracks. However, this should not be a crucial role for the PDP’s appointed panel in redefining how a democratic process of electing the next governor of a State in a civilized society should be. Otherwise, if allowed, it will amount to deprivation and oppression of the electorate. In turn, this may bring about chaos and active or passive rebellion by many people.
“Even when one does not feel a sense of worry for the PDP if it loses Cross River State to another Party in the governorship and general elections, it is time our political leaders learnt how to take decisions that would build our democracy than destroy it. Democracy is about more than holding elections. A real and true democracy should reflect the will of the people,” the statement said.
