By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State, Chief Edward Percy Masha, says the party is on course to reclaim power in the state, citing increasing dissatisfaction with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and growing public support for the PDP’s alternative vision.
Masha, in a statement issued to THE PUNCH on Wednesday, said since assuming leadership of the party six months ago, his administration has prioritised reconciliation, party cohesion, and grassroots engagement.
He said ongoing consultations with critical stakeholders have helped to reposition the PDP as a viable opposition force and a beacon of hope for citizens.
According to him, the party has recorded significant progress despite challenges, including the alleged attempt by the APC to rig the 2024 local government elections a move he said was thwarted through PDP’s vigilance
Masha also acknowledged the wave of defections that saw some elected officials and stakeholders decamp to the APC but said the PDP remains resolute and united.
He noted that efforts led by Hon. Shuaibu Miqati, the chairman of the Reconciliation Committee, has sparked a healing process among aggrieved members, with many embracing the reconciliation.
“We are focused on consolidating our hold on the National Assembly seats, defending our three senatorial positions, and expanding our representation at both the state and federal levels,” he said.
He criticised the APC-led administration of Governor Uba Sani, describing the government’s “Sustain Agenda” as an extension of “painful policies” that have worsened the living conditions of citizens.
“There is widespread insecurity across local government areas such as Kauru, Kaura, Zangon-Kataf, Kajuru, Lere, and Birnin Gwari due to the state government’s failure to complement federal security efforts.
Meanwhile, workers are on strike, hospitals are struggling, and rural infrastructure remains neglected,” Masha stated.
He accused the government of wasteful spending and alleged that funds were being channelled into flamboyant events for projects that were either abandoned or never initiated.
In contrast, he said PDP lawmakers have been providing boreholes, classrooms, laboratories, healthcare facilities, farming inputs, scholarships, and other empowerment programmes to cushion the hardship faced by the masses.
On the party’s legal battle over the local government councils, Masha said PDP is pushing to sack all 23 the chairmen and 255 councillors in the state and restore democratic governance through the courts.
“There’s no debate that our people desire change, and the PDP is committed to ushering in a new dawn. We will continue to expose the government’s inadequacies and provide credible alternatives,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the PDP would build on its 2023 performance and reclaim the governorship seat in 2027.
“Any attempt by the APC to rig the next election will be strongly resisted, stressing the party is prepared to defend the people’s mandate with courage and commitment,” he added.
Masha urged party members and citizens to remain united and hopeful, assuring them that the PDP is ready to lead the charge for the redemption of Kaduna State.
