
The Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Hon. Steve Oruruo, says the state chapter is fully prepared for the party’s forthcoming National Convention slated for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Addressing journalists after a series of consultative meetings with party stakeholders in Enugu, Oruruo said the state had concluded all logistical and organisational arrangements, describing the Enugu PDP as “strong, united, and indestructible.”
According to him, all delegates will be airlifted from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, with transportation, accommodation, and uniforms already provided.
“I just returned from Abuja where I secured all the necessary materials for the convention. We have met with delegates, distributed uniforms, and concluded travel logistics,” Oruruo stated.
He added that an aircraft would remain on standby throughout the convention period while the state party office maintains communication with delegates regarding official schedules.
Oruruo said Enugu is sending about 81 delegates to the convention but may sponsor additional members interested in attending. Despite not enjoying financial backing from the state government, he described the party as a “fortress that cannot be submerged.”
Reiterating the need for unity and inclusiveness, the Acting Chairman said the state leadership had intensified consultations across all levels to strengthen internal harmony.
“We are speaking with everybody. In every family, people have different interests, but it’s in everyone’s best interest to unite and present a strong front,” he said.
Oruruo noted that opposition politics demands resilience and teamwork, stressing that the PDP can only remain relevant through collective effort.
“Opposition is not easy. The only strength of a strong opposition is unity. With togetherness as our enabler, we can put up a formidable fight,” he maintained.
Looking ahead to the convention, he expressed optimism that the exercise will deepen internal democracy, rebuild trust, and foster reconciliation within the party.
“My expectation is unity. All interests should reach a compromise. Politics is played by human beings, not by goats or cattle. Everyone has something to contribute,” he remarked.
Oruruo also called for inclusiveness and the free exchange of ideas, warning that suppressing dissent would weaken democracy.
“If we block plurality of opinions, it marks the beginning of the end of our democracy. We need a vibrant opposition that offers Nigerians a credible alternative,” he said.
He concluded by expressing faith in the electorate, saying the people will always speak through their votes once the PDP presents credible and trustworthy candidates.
“Nigerians still believe in the PDP; what they need is leadership that will not bend to inducement or threat,” Oruruo said.