Chief Oliver Okpala, Senior Special Assistant on Public Enlightenment to the All Progressives Congress’ National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, has condemned the Sunday disruption of the North-East zonal meeting in Gombe, where an attempt was made to physically attack his principal, Ganduje.
Reacting to the incident in a statement on Monday, Okpala described it as “grievously irresponsible and unpatriotic.”
He warned that such actions could destabilise the country’s fragile political order.
Okpala said, ”This kind of unwarranted political crisis is reminiscent of what happened in the Western Region during the First Republic, which later snowballed into a national disaster and contributed to the collapse of that Republic.”
He noted that Ganduje, since assuming office, has been committed to uniting the party and fostering inclusivity across all geopolitical zones.
“The National Chairman of APC is a father to all.
“Since he assumed office, he has been working and uniting all members and showing love to all,” Okpala said.
According to him, Ganduje made efforts to calm tensions at the meeting by reaffirming the significance of the North-East to the APC and the Nigerian government.
“He had emphasised that the North-East produced Nigeria’s number two citizen, and that the APC values the zone.
“That the President and Vice President are a single ticket under the constitution, yet they refused to listen,” he added.
Despite this, Okpala said some individuals at the meeting remained unruly and allegedly attempted to assault the chairman as he made his way to his car.
He also hailed the security operatives for swiftly intervening to prevent what could have escalated into “total anarchy and chaos.”
He added, “This attempt by these individuals to physically attack the national chairman was an unruly act which must not be allowed to be swept under the carpet.
“Thanks to the Nigerian police personnel and other security operatives who acted promptly.”
He described the attack not only as a personal affront to Ganduje but an insult to the entire national leadership of the APC.
“Political leaders should always advise their followers and supporters to show restraint and play by the rules.
“Politics is not about violence; it is dialogue, lobbying, and consultations.
“No matter what people feel, they should control their tempers,” Okpala advised.
He also questioned the presence of such conduct in a meeting where state governors were in attendance.
“What an effrontery! This is a dangerous precedent. An occasion like that should have been one of political decorum and responsibility. Instead, some chose brigandage,” he said.
Okpala concluded by urging those behind the disruption to retrace their steps, saying, “Those responsible for these ignoble actions should immediately return to the path of political rectitude.
“Dr. Ganduje has always worked for peace and unity. Violence can never have a place in our polity.”
(Punch)
