The Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Ward Congress Committee in Adamawa State, Gebon Timothy Kataps, has commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the party’s ward congresses held across all 226 wards in the state.
Speaking to reporters during a monitoring exercise, Kataps expressed satisfaction with the turnout and general atmosphere at the venues visited. He noted that the congresses part of the PDP’s nationwide off-season congresses had thus far been marked by unity, discipline, and active participation from party members.
“So far so good. This is the third ward we are visiting and we are very impressed with the early turnout of delegates the women and men of the party who have come out in their numbers to either vote for their candidates or affirm consensus candidates,” Kataps said.
He further noted that the conduct of party members had been exemplary, emphasizing the peaceful and collaborative environment observed across the wards. “We are also impressed with the unity we see among party members in all the wards visited. The atmosphere has been very peaceful,” he added.
On the modalities guiding the congresses, Kataps explained that the PDP constitution allows for both elective and consensus arrangements. Where multiple aspirants are contesting, delegates are required to cast their votes. However, in cases where there is consensus, delegates simply affirm the agreed candidates.
He also applauded the active role of women in the exercise, particularly highlighting their composure and turnout.
“The turnout of women is impressive. In several polling units, women were seen coming out in large numbers and maintaining order as they awaited the start of elections. Even when men were moving around, the women stayed in line, which was quite commendable,” he noted.
Addressing recent public discourse on the participation of civil servants in politics, Kataps, a lawyer, clarified the legal position. He emphasized that while freedom of association is constitutionally guaranteed, civil servants must resign from office before vying for elective positions.
“The constitution allows everybody freedom of association, which includes civil servants. You can belong to any political party, but when it comes to contesting an election, you must relinquish one. You cannot be a civil servant and at the same time seek elective office. Common sense and the law make that clear,” he explained.
Reflecting on the broader state of the party, Kataps acknowledged current challenges within the PDP but expressed strong confidence in its resilience and future.
“Yes, we are facing our fair share of challenges at the moment—some self-inflicted, others from those attempting to destabilise the party. But I can assure you, the PDP is a party deeply rooted in Nigeria. It remains in the hearts of the people, and Nigerians love the party. The PDP will rise again,” he affirmed.
The Adamawa ward congresses are part of a nationwide exercise aimed at strengthening the party’s grassroots structures ahead of upcoming electoral contests.
