The South-South PDP Youth Amalgamation has strongly criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai over their recent efforts to form a political coalition, describing the move as a self-serving attempt to regain political relevance.
In a statement signed by its convener, John Albert Clarkson, the group labeled the duo as “political jobbers” and accused them of lacking consistency and sincerity in their political pursuits.
The group said the push for coalition by the duo is a desperate bid for personal ascendancy, and a clear indication of the inconsistencies and deceptions that have characterized the political careers of both Atiku and El-Rufai.”
Throwing its weight behind the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, the youth group praised the Forum for rejecting what it called an “ill-conceived” coalition effort.
“Atiku Abubakar and Nasir El-Rufai have long been figures in Nigerian politics who have made promises and declarations that often fail to materialize. Their political journeys are marked by a series of contradictions that have left many Nigerians disillusioned.
“Atiku, once a stalwart of the PDP, has oscillated between parties in pursuit of power, demonstrating a lack of commitment to the very ideals he professes to uphold.
“Similarly, El-Rufai, who has often positioned himself as a reformist, has been embroiled in controversies that undermine his credibility. Their recent coalition reeks of desperation, a last-ditch effort to regain relevance by political opportunists and job seekers in a political environment that is increasingly rejecting their brand of politics,” the statement said.
The group hailed the PDP Governors Forum as “a beacon of hope” for rejecting the coalition and prioritizing national interest.
“The actions of the PDP Governors Forum serve as a beacon of hope in these turbulent times. By rejecting the coalition, the Forum has sent a strong message that the PDP remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.
“Under the leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed, the Governors Forum has demonstrated that it prioritizes the needs of the people over personal ambitions. This is a refreshing departure from the self-serving politics that have plagued our nation for far too long.”
The statement emphasized the need for a stable and reliable political platform to address Nigeria’s current challenges, asserting that the PDP is the only party equipped for the task.
“The current political climate in Nigeria demands a credible and dependable platform that can navigate the complexities of governance and deliver tangible results. The PDP, under the stewardship of its dedicated leaders, has proven to be that platform.
“The rejection of the Atiku-El-Rufai desperation is not merely a political maneuver; it is a declaration of intent to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and service to the Nigerian populace. We believe that the PDP is now positioned to lead Nigeria through its limitations, offering a path toward sustainable development and genuine progress,” it said.
Calling on citizens to rally behind the PDP, the group urged Nigerians to support a movement driven by collective interest.
“We urge well-meaning Nigerians to join forces with the PDP. This is not just about political affiliation; it is about fostering a movement that prioritizes the collective good over individual ambitions.
“The time has come for us to rally around a party that demonstrates a genuine commitment to the people, a party that is willing to listen, to learn, and to lead with integrity.
“The South-South Youth Amalgamation stands firm in its condemnation of the desperate opportunism by Atiku Abubakar and Nasir El-Rufai.
“We commend the PDP Governors Forum for their courageous stance and reiterate our belief that the PDP is the only credible platform capable of steering Nigeria toward a brighter future. Together, let us unite under the banner of the PDP and work towards a Nigeria that reflects the aspirations and dreams of all its citizens,” the group said.
