[MIDDLE BELT AND 2015: JONATHAN CROSSES THE BRIDGE] ------------------------ The North-Central serves as a bridge between the North and the South and would prove pivotal in the resolution of the 2015 presidential contest. The recent rally by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Minna was an opportunity for the ruling party to up the stakes in the unfolding battle for the soul of the nation. WITH six states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja serving as a bridge between the far North and southern parts of Nigeria, the North-Central geo-political zone is easily one of the country’s most strategic political pies. It is therefore not out of place for political parties to jostle for political footholds in the area. Last week’s unity rally of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in Minna, Niger State could thus be seen as preparing grounds for party in the zone ahead of the 2015 polls. Held at the Trade Fair Complex along Minna Paiko Suleja road, the caliber of PDP stalwarts that attended the rally indicated that the party meant business. The mammoth crowd of PDP faithful included President Goodluck Jonathan, Vice President Namadi Sambo, Senate President David Mark, National Chairman, Adamu Mu’azu, PDP governors from across the country especially North Central states, members of the National Assembly and a host of other party stalwarts and supporters from within and outside Niger State. As early as 7 am, party supporters had started trooping to the venue which had been turned into a beautiful arena with posters of President Jonathan, Sambo, Mu’azu and Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu of the state. Right from the “State Box” which was reserved for the president, his vice, senate president, past and present national chairmen and officials of the party and other dignitaries was a long wooden pathway laid with red carpet and elevated above the pavilions to enable the crowd catch a good glimpse of the speakers while walking to the podium or delivering their speeches. PDP stronger without defectors –Jonathan Speaking at the rally, President Jonathan described those who left the PDP recently for the All Progressives Congress (APC) as retrogressive, adding that their departure was good and would not have any adverse effect on the party.
Posted on: Wed, 19 Mar 2014 14:53:25 +0000
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