TheCable

Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos state have called for support in rebuilding the party ahead of the 2023 elections.

PDP, the major opposition party in the state, has not won any governorship election in Lagos since the return of democracy in 1999.

On Monday, former aspirants and candidates for state and national assemblies, asked Bode George, a chieftain of the party, to help rebuild PDP in the state.

The event was held at George’s residence in the Ikoyi area of Lagos.

At the meeting, Lucy Otu of Ibeju-Lekki constituency said the party is currently “bleeding”.

“Lagos State PDP is bleeding and we believe you will lead us right and get us out of this bondage,” she said.

Adamoh-Faniyan Gbenga, another party member from Lagos Island, commended George for his consistency in improving the party.

“We are grateful that despite the intimidation, the deep pocket, the commitment of funding, the bastardisation of the treasury of the state, you are still consistent,” he said.

“We know that many that were with you from the beginning have left to the opposition party, but you remain consistent.”

In his response, George admitted that the party is in need of reform to tackle issues of indiscipline.

He said the party’s constitution has been flouted by some members of the party belonging to a different faction.

“When somebody said the party is bleeding, you are right. Where is the discipline? We have a constitution, the dos and don’t,” he said.

George, who served as PDP deputy national chairman, south, commended the party members for their commitment.

“Our representatives, I must thank you for your steadfastness, loyalty, and commitment to the party. The way the party was managed even during the primaries, despite all that, what you have done is part of your commitment,” he said.

“Some persons have jumped ship, but you were never afraid, you stood your ground and followed your conscience and for me, there is no other measure to be a proud member than what you people did.

“You were doing it because you believe that is the right thing to do and that is why PDP in the south-west today is getting back to normalcy. If not, they would have sold the party.”

On the issue of insecurity, George called for a restructuring of the country, particularly the devolution of powers to the states.

He also faulted the rising unemployment rate, insecurity crisis, among other challenges ravaging the nation.

Other party members at the event include Bakare Tony of Eti-Osa federal constituency, Akinsanya Abdul-Azeez of Alimosho LGA, and Seyon Hunyunbo of Badagry constituency.