PDP Condemns Hate Speech, Urges Dialogue on Restructuring

By Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Senator Ahmed Makarfi-led National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has frowned on the various inciting speeches either from northern or southern groups, saying such outbursts must be avoided and be condemned by all.

Following concerns trailing the quit notice issued to the Igbos by a northern youth group, the main opposition party advised the federal government to take steps to convene a national dialogue to take a look at the federal structure.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Makarfi said: “The recent altercation between some of our people which degenerated into the issuance of ultimatum and counter ultimatum for some of us to leave certain areas is an ill wind that blows no good, moreso that we have a sad history of not so dissimilar circumstances that we had better not allow a repeat. Hate speeches either coming from the North, South, East or West must be avoided and be condemned by all of us,” he said.

Makarfi said that PDP’s believe in the unity of the country remains unshakable, adding that mutual respect and accommodation are a very necessary ingredient to sustain the union.

He said that the PDP has no problem with people’s agitations so long as in trying to draw attention to their yearnings and aspirations, respect for one another and the realisation that “our rights do not include encroachment into, and infringement on the legitimate rights and dignity of others should guide our conduct”.

Details later…