The crisis rocking the ruling People Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a new turn with the resignation of the National Publicity Secretary of the Party, Chief Olisa Metuh.
Metuh’s resignation is said to be the first in a string of departures of high profile members of the party due to irregularities surrounding their elections, as cited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
His resignation comes ahead of the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting which is expected to hold on June 20th.
Speaking on his departure from the party, Metuh said, “I want to inform you that I am resigning as the National Publicity Secretary with effect from Thursday, 20th June 2013.
“This resignation is in the overall interest of the party and is being done to put a final stop to the controversies generated by the INEC report on the mode of my election as National Publicity Secretary.
“I have served this party as a member of National Executive Committee for over 10 years and therefore my interest is to ensure that this party stabilises and progress. I have written and submitted my letter; I am resigning with effect from Thursday 20th June 2013.”
He also addressed issues relating to the Chairman’s election, “There is no controversy about his election, he is not in court. The INEC report did not say his election was flawed. He complied with the Constitution of the party and the guideline of the 2012 convention.”
Metuh also noted that the PDP is the only party that can safeguard democracy in Nigeria, saying “in whatever capacity I may find myself, I will always vote and support the PDP.”
Other members of the PDP NWC expected to resign shortly include, the Deputy National Chairman, Sam Sam Jaja; National Organizing Secretary, Abubakar Mustapha; his deputy, Okechukwu Nnadozie; National Publicity Secretary(deputy) Binta Goje; National Youth Leader, Garba Chiza; his deputy, Dennis Alonge Niyi; Deputy National Auditor, Umar Ibrahim;National Women Leader, Kema Chikwe; her deputy, Hannatu Ulam; Deputy National Treasurer, Claudus Inengas ; and the National Legal Adviser, Victor Kwon.