Former managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Timi Alaibe, has called for support from his followers following his suit against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the outcome of the Bayelsa State governorship primary.
The party had named Senator Douye Diri, who represents Bayelsa Central at the National Assembly, as its candidate for the November 16 governorship election at the primary held on September 3.
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In a statement on Monday, Mr Alaibe said he remained in the PDP to fight the “faulty process” in the party.
He said: “You will recall that arising from the inexcusable faulty processes that preceded the Peoples Democratic Party governorship primary election in Bayelsa State, it was the collective decision of those who believe in the future of Bayelsa State, and indeed the future of democracy in Nigeria, that I, Ndutimi Alaibe, an aspirant in that race, should seek judicial redress over the manipulated processes that led to the unacceptable outcome of that election. This was based on the indisputable belief that a faulty process cannot produce a good and acceptable result.
“Some people have questioned the need for a court process. The answer is simple: any injustice that is not challenged and corrected will surely be repeated. And we will be the victims. As an advocate of peace and non-violence, I decided to accept the advice of the stakeholders and seek justice through legal means.
“Although this was misunderstood by some people, I want to sincerely thank my supporters and indeed all lovers of democracy and the rule of law for their understanding and massive support so far. I salute your calmness and perseverance in the face of great injustice. But please understand that I need you now more than ever.”
He added that despite suggestions to leave the PDP for another party, he decided to stay and make the process better.
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“My beloved supporters and people of Bayelsa State, I have come to the ultimate conclusion that this struggle must continue until we achieve justice. I am not deaf to your suggestions,” Alaibe said.
“I am not ignorant of your patience. I am not giving up. You must also not give up. The decision I have taken may hurt a lot of people. Others may be disappointed. But it is taken in good faith.
“As I promised you at the beginning of this race, my previous exit from the PDP was based on principle; my return was based on necessity. After considering every suggestion by stakeholders and supporters, it is, therefore, my decision not to join any other political party but to stay in the PDP and pursue justice until I achieve it.”
