The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nasarawa State is under scrutiny for alleged attempts to incite racial and religious tensions following a recent Court of Appeal ruling that upheld Governor Abdullahi Sule’s victory.
Mr. Peter Ahemba, the governor’s senior special assistant on public affairs, brought these allegations to light in Lafia, accusing the opposition party of orchestrating a protest to undermine and blackmail the judiciary.
Accusations of Manipulation: PDP’s Attempt to Undermine Judicial Integrity
Ahemba claimed that the opposition party was trying to stage-manage a protest in Lafia, using it as a tool to undermine the recent ruling and cast aspersions on the integrity of the judiciary.
He accused the PDP of persistently following a hazardous route since the state’s governorship election and highlighted the party’s previous attacks on the judiciary during the governorship election petition tribunal hearings.
Ethnic Strife Allegations: “Coalition of Indigenous People of Nasarawa State” Accused of Stoking Tensions
During the alleged “stage-managed” demonstration, Ahemba asserted that individuals sponsored by the PDP, operating under the banner of the “Coalition of Indigenous People of Nasarawa State,” referred to certain state residents as “foreigners.”
He condemned this act, claiming it amounted to stoking ethnic strife in a state known for the peaceful coexistence of its people.
Warning from Security Authorities: PDP’s Persistence Despite Caution
Despite warnings from security authorities to avoid actions that could plunge the state into crisis, Ahemba accused the PDP of persistently pursuing a dangerous path.
He connected the recent protest to the party’s electioneering activities and previous attacks on the judiciary, suggesting a pattern of behavior aimed at gaining sympathy from the public and tarnishing the reputation of the judiciary.
Denouncement of Desperation: Condemnation of PDP’s Actions
Ahemba condemned what he described as the PDP’s desperation for power and urged security agencies to take note of the dangerous rhetoric that, according to him, is close to instigating hate among citizens.
He emphasized the diverse nature of Nasarawa State in terms of ethnic and religious beliefs, asserting that no single group or religion has the sole capacity to produce the governor without the support of others.
Laughable Claims: PDP’s Allegations of External Interference Dismissed
In response to the PDP’s call on the international community to intervene in the state’s affairs, Ahemba dismissed the claims as laughable.
He pointed out the irony of the opposition party alleging external interference when, according to him, they themselves relied on external forces to acquire power after being rejected by the electorate.
Ahemba also highlighted the PDP’s efforts to garner support from individuals and organizations within and outside the country based on sentiments.
Politics