In a time when crisis has been a common thing in the states, Orji Kalu has adviced that the convention be postponed.
“It is vital to recognize your remarkable leadership characteristics in assisting in the stabilization of our great party across the six geopolitical zones, with high-profile defections to your credit as an outstanding party leader.”
“I must also compliment your calm demeanor and commitment to our party’s expansion, which has seen very peaceful congresses across the country.”
“It is important to remember, however, that certain states are engulfed in a crisis involving many factions.
“These divisions are not new to our politics, particularly after democracy was restored in 1999. However, the repercussions of these divisions during and after elections must be taken into account.
“It is vital to remember that the ignoble establishment of factions in our party cost our party governorship elections in Rivers and Zamfara states,” Kalu stated.
The former governor of Abia also pointed out that the APC failed to field candidates in some Cross River senatorial districts, allowing the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to win.
“Similarly, the creation of factions denied the party victory in so many states because the crisis were never settled. As a peaceful and tactful leader, I am sure you wouldn’t allow such scenario to reoccur.
“It is on this note that I write to appeal to your office and members of the Convention Extraordinary Planning Committee to reconsider the slated date for the 2022 National Convention.
“It is important that we collectively save the party from implosion due to the numerous court cases across the states. It is also important that you reconsider the date due to the confusions with regards to the zoning of offices.
Kalu said the conclusion drawn from all the cases was that after the state congresses, the burgeoning morale of party members was badly affected.
He stressed that it would be devastating to continue with the convention without settling the differences in various states and sort out the issues of zoning which could not be addressed in two months.
“The logical corollary of the foregoing pronouncements of the courts is that having too many cases without settling them amicably, the APC may be embarking upon a collision course which may lead the party to implosion.
“It is important to first postpone the convention with all peace and reconciliation machineries fully put in place. The issue of zoning should be properly handled with even representation across the six geopolitical zones.
“In conclusion, I am suggesting for a simultaneous event of having the presidential primary and election of National Working Committee (NWC) members on the same day and venue to avoid rancour and litigations,’’ Kalu said.
CREDIT: VANGUARD NEWS