PMB Meets APC, PDP Leaders Jointly
BY AMOS DUNIA, ABUJA – President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday met with the leaders of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa
The meeting, attended by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, is the first ever bi-partisan gathering of political parties’ to be hosted by President Buhari since assuming office on May 29, 2015.
The meeting afforded the President the opportunity to thank them for their prayers for his recovery while in the United Kingdom on medical vacation
President Buhari further said; “I thank you sincerely, collectively and individually for finding time from your busy schedules to come all the way to Abuja and welcome me back home.
“This visit signifies the unity of Nigeria. It is not a party occasion. It is not a political gathering. It is a symbol of our National unity. It is also an expression of the maturity of our democracy.
“Multi-party democracy is a very tried and tested form of government. Opposition does not mean hostility, enmity or antagonism. Democracy needs opposition, one which is vibrant but responsible.
“I am very pleased to see you assembled here from all shades of opinion in Nigeria. Please convey to our countrymen and women in your respective states, my deep gratitude to all those who prayed for my recovery. I am imploring all Nigerians to continue praying for peace and prosperity in Nigeria.
In his remarks, National Chairman of the PDP, Senator Ahmed Makarfi said his party members prayed for Buhari’s recovery from his health challenges, stressing that the party has never wished the President ill-health or death.
Makarfi also pledged the cooperation of the PDP with the Buhari-led administration on any policy or programme genuinely designed to take the country to greater heights, including the war against corruption.
The PDP Chairman however, tasked the government to be responsible and law abiding by respecting all court orders or judicial pronouncements.
Also speaking, National Chairman of the APC, Chief John Odighie-Oyegun said it was quite instructive that the two major parties were joined in the courtesy call initiated by the President.
Odighie-Oyegun expressed the hope that the message inherent in such cooperation would permeate the entire country adding that there are far too many national challenges needed to be surmounted besides politicking.
The two party leaders, on behalf of their delegations, wished Buhari robust health to be able to steer the ship of nation aright.
