PDP lacks internal democracy, says Tukur

By Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

Tukur

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, yesterday restated his position that lack of internal democracy in the party is responsible for the nation’s inability to enjoy a democratic culture. 

Tukur spoke in Abuja at the inauguration of the party’s 50-member Advisory Committee, charged with advising him on how to run the party effectively. 

The chairman maintained that besides lack of internal democracy, the PDP also lacks openness, inclusiveness, fairness, respect as well as proper balance between the principles of fusion and separation of powers as they relate to oversight functions of governance in the party and the government. 

Tukur said: “We cannot reposition our party or be a leading force in deepening democratic culture in Nigeria, unless we effectively address these problems and challenges. 

“The problems we face, tough enough on their own, are made more difficult by our mindset. We believe that gentle persuasion is more effective than aggressive argumentation or disputatiousness; which is rather a very bad habit, making people often extremely disagreeable.” 

The PDP chairman regretted that after several years of military rule, the legislature at the three tiers of government still needs an enabling environment to develop a spine for effectively oversight functions. 

He urged politicians to put service above self, saying growing public awareness has emboldened the people to speak their minds and challenge unfavourable policies. 

Tukur canvassed the need to reduce the level of corruption through judicious application of public funds. 

He warned politicians of the dire consequences of continued militarisation of the polity, saying the trend ought to be reversed, if an effective democratic culture must be enthroned. 

Former Vice President Alex Ekwueme is the chairman of the council. Its members are: Chief Richard Akinjide, Chief Tony Anenih, Chief Solomon Lar, Chief Bode George, Senator Ibrahim Mantu, among others.