PDP crisis: I’m open to negotiation, Atiku replies Wike

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has said he is open to negotiating with the camp of Governor Nyesom Wike.

Wike’s camp had pulled out of the campaign of Atiku and demanded the resignation of Senator Iyioricha Ayu as National Chairman for peace to reign.

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But speaking in Bauchi State on Wednesday, Wike, who led aggrieved PDP governors to Bala Mohammed, their Bauchi counterpart, said he and his allies are still open to reconciliation with the leadership of the party.

“I have stated severally that we are here for reconciliation. We have never closed the door for reconciliation. All we are calling for is equity, fairness, and justice. In fact, that is the hallmark that PDP stands for. We have never closed the door and we would not close the door.

“All we are saying is, ‘look, let the right thing be done.’ If the right thing is done, the whole country would know that the election is over. This G5 you are seeing is the bedrock of the party, so we would not close the door for reconciliation; we are open for reconciliation any day, anytime,” Wike had said.

Reacting in a statement issued by Paul Ibe, his media adviser, the former vice-president said doors have not been shut against aggrieved members of the party.

“The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar welcomes reports that the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike and his group are favourably disposed to the resolution of the issues with the PDP candidate.

“Atiku Abubakar also expresses his commitment to a negotiation that will resolve the crisis of confidence and pave the way for a much stronger and united PDP. The former Vice President of Nigeria notes that never at any time of the differences that have ensued have the doors been shut to Wike and his group.

“He enjoins every leader of the party and their supporters irrespective of their leanings to be open-minded and support the process of resolution of the extant issues.”