Discipline is indeed a fundamental requirement for the smooth and efficient management of any organization and most certainly for a political party. Chapter 10 of the PDP constitution prescribes the details of implementing this requirement in our party. For some time now, there has been a proliferation of actions across various levels of our party, throughout the country, which have been actions of gross indiscipline. These actions have contributed in no small measure to the misfortune of our party at various levels. The media is full, of unfavorable comments, all about gross indiscipline perpetrated by virtually all categories of our membership. Everyone knows that our fundamental problem in the 2023 General Election was absolute indiscipline.
I recall that after the shocking and inexcusable defeat of the PDP in the 2015 General Elections, in consideration of how best to rebrand itself to be in proper quest for power in the future, it was obvious to all, that Party discipline was to be restored to all levels of the party without exception. I believe that was why in August 2017 a National Disciplinary Committee of seven members was inaugurated. That number was by the provisions of our constitution and the seven members chosen were of the highest caliber. I have had the privilege of being the Chairman of the committee since then. The other members are:
Chief Onyeama Ugochukwu CON
Rt Hon. Austin Opara
Late Barr Victor Kwon
Col Balance Mande (RTD)
Hadjia Inna Ciroma
Barr. Eyitayo Jegede SAN (member secretary)
May I use this opportunity to express my profound thanks to all these members of the committee, for their wonderful cooperation and dedication to all our tasks. The disciplinary committee can only operate as directed by the NWC. All matters that were referred to the committee since its inauguration were promptly attended to. I was aware of so many matters, freely discussed in the public domain but they were never referred to the committee.
Today, our country is in dire straights. We just experienced a nationwide Protest which tells the story of where we are. Those of us who in 2014 played vital roles in the creation of an alternative powerful party succeeded in creating the APC which gave the PDP necessary competition. It is now clear to all that a change is now necessary. The PDP must put its act together and claim back power again as the true and reliable alternative. There is no need really for the creation of any new political parties. The establishment of these two committees, the Reconciliation Committee and the Disciplinary Committee is fundamental for the proper restructuring of our party. This must not be just a show, at the end of which we all walk away and go to sleep.
With regards to the Disciplinary Committee, if indeed we are within the accurate implementation of the constitution with regards to the number of members, I assess that we have put together, quite a distinguished selection across the country for its membership. I hope that all those selected and inaugurated today have come fully committed with loyalty to the party to face the task before us squarely. Certainly, this is not the platform to represent any individual or factional interest. There is no question that if there are members of the committee with any matters against them, they will without doubt also face the committee.
Mr Chairman, We need a detailed terms of reference and a well-established work procedure. I hope the necessary support will be worked out to enable this rather large committee to perform successfully.
Let me express my thanks on behalf of all the members of the Disciplinary Committee to our National Chairman and all the members of the NWC for finding us worthy to be members of this very important committee. We look forward to a very harmonious working relationship all in the best interest of our Party and our country.
High Chief Tom Ikimi CON
Oduma of Esanland