Secondus Celebrates APC Defectors As Democracy Heroes

BY EDMOND ODOK, ABUJA – Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday night celebrated members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that recently joined its fold as true heroes of Nigeria’s democracy.

In a well-attended reception at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, PDP National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, was full of praises for the defectors as democracy heroes that took the bold steps of dumping the ruling APC not just for themselves and their families, but in the overall national interest.

An elated Secondus told the gathering that this move by both new and returning PDP members is a selfless effort because it has something to do about our nation with about 200 million people.

According to him, “They took this decision because they cannot continue to sit and watch what is happening in our country today.”

“We need to honour them. They are heroes of democracy. Their decision is to defend our democracy.”

The PDP Chairman, who told the defectors that the coming days will prove a long walk to freedom, pledged that there would free and fair primaries to accommodate all interests with a level playing field for everyone to pursue his or her aspiration without any hindrance.

He applauded the federal lawmakers for leading the exodus to PDP and urged those that are yet undecided on defecting to PDP to quickly make up their minds as a conducive atmosphere will be provided for them in the country’s major opposition party.

“We have assured you before. We are reassuring you that everything will be in your favour”, Prince Secondus said.

Speaking for the APC defectors, Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Dino Melaye praised the PDP leadership for welcoming them back with open arms.

Melaye, a former PDP member, also hinted that in the days ahead more Senators and House of Representatives would find their way into the opposition PDP.

Also speaking at the event, a member representing Owo/Ose Federal Constituency in Ondo State, Mr Bode Ayorinde, said the decision to re-embrace PDP was informed by its rebranded nature.

Ayorinde said on behalf of the House of Representatives members that defected from APC, they were determined to work hard for PDP’s electoral victory come 2019.

He said contrary to insinuations that they jettisoned APC for personal interests because money was not being shared, the move to PDP is aimed at helping put an end to hunger, poverty, killings and dictatorship in the country. – With agency reports