By Osaigbovo Okungbowa, Senior Political Correspondent
ABUJA, Nigeria – Amid the turbulent waters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) crisis, former vice president Atiku Abubakar has offered a profound message, citing God as the final arbiter of power. His remarks are a monument to unshakable faith and a reminder to remain humble, resounding in the political sphere like thunderclaps.
Following a tumultuous 98th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar withdrew to the safety of a WhatsApp group chat with his followers. He firmly stated that authority ultimately comes from the divine domain and not from the schemes of mortals here, amidst the virtual murmurs of unity.
However, Atiku provided some explanation for his declaration. Amidst internal party turmoil and discord, the NEC meeting transpired, surrounded by mystery and conjecture. The reconstruction of the party’s Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committees was one of the resolutions that came out of the meeting, demonstrating the party’s commitment to stability in the face of instability.
But there were rumblings of dissatisfaction among Atiku’s fans, a sense of betrayal that was brewing beneath the surface. Atiku invoked divine providence, which has led him through six presidential races, to stay firm in the face of adversity.
After a fan expressed her unwavering faith, Atiku acknowledged God’s omnipotent hand in human affairs and echoed the idea. His remarks were a comfort to his followers’ tired spirits and reflected the sentiment of many who see him as a ray of hope during trying times.
Deputy National Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja attempted to respond to requests for the suspension of prominent party figures accused of engaging in anti-party activities while the PDP struggled with internal discord. Notably, party dissension targeted Nyesome Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former governor of Rivers State.
However, Arapaja’s reaction, which was given in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, emphasised the party’s dedication to following the law. He underlined that internal processes like the disciplinary committee, not the NEC, have the authority to suspend party members. His remarks served as a helpful reminder of how crucial it is to follow protocol even when things are chaotic.
The future of Umar Damagum, the PDP’s acting national chairman, was in jeopardy amid the chaos. While rumours of his possible removal circulated, party officials struggled to make the difficult choice. But in the end, analysts believe that Damagum’s victory was largely due to the PDP governors’ intervention.
PDP governors outlined a course for reconciliation during a meeting at the governor’s lodge in Akwa Ibom. They suggested Damagum serve out his full term until August 15th, a move meant to promote harmony and peace within the party. Their involvement was evidence of the critical role that crisis leadership plays.
Atiku Abubakar’s statements serve as a sobering reminder that, despite the chaos of politics, the divine hand of providence eventually determines the course of history, as the dust settles on another chapter in Nigeria’s turbulent political tale. And faith continues to be a bulwark in the choppy seas of Nigerian politics.
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