The decision of Governor Murtala Nyako to ban political activities in Adamawa State ahead of the December 27, 2012 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) state congress, is causing ripples within the party.
The congress is being organised by the Ambassador Umar Damagum-led caretaker committee. The party has been bedevilled by internal strife as Bamanga Tukur and Nyako’s camps battle over its soul.
Citing security reasons, Nyako had placed a ban on political activities, but rival groups within the PDP in the state have condemned the move, alleging that it is a ploy to scuttle the state congress, which the governor opposes.
When contacted, chairman of the caretaker committee could not comment on the issue, but sources close to his secretariat said the state commissioner of police had allayed fears of any security breach in the state that could hinder the conduct of the election.
Speaking to LEADERSHIP WEEKEND, the Adamawa State police public relations officer, DSP Ibrahim Mohammed, said as far as the command was concerned, Governor Nyako is the chief security officer of the state and his views in relation to security matters were sacrosanct. He, therefore, advised politicians who have contrary views to challenge the decision in court.
But the public relations officer of the caretaker committee, Mr. Eli Gamaliel, said they would go ahead with the election as scheduled because they have received clearance from the PDP National Working Committee (NWC).