Kwara PDP: Why I’m teaming up with Saraki, Ahmed – Ex-minister

The former Minister of National Planning, Professor Abubakar Olarewaju Sulaiman, yesterday, told members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara state that he could not assure them of fairness and equity because of the new entrants into the party.
Recall that the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, the Kwara state Governor, Alhaji Abduldfattah Ahmed, two senators, 23 members of the House of Assembly, the 16 local government chairmen and 192 councilors in the state last week dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) for PDP.
Sulaiman in a statement, however, thanked members of the party in the state for believing in them and assured them that he would hold their ‘trust till the end’.
He said: “Distinguished members of our party.
The recent gale of defection to our party from people of the other side should be welcomed within the context of the broader reality.
“Though, we never anticipated this development, as a party man, I am constrained to live and work for the good of my party.
While I am not oblivious of the local peculiarity, but then, we must not forget that we have a greater monster to confront at the centre.
“My new association by virtue of the coalition would not impugn on my character and vision.
I stand by our collective agenda.
I stand for the good of Kwara state.
We should remain resolute and be determined to change our society for the betterment of our children.
Let no one be under any illusion that all is well.
There is indeed a long way to go.
“I can’t assure you that I have gotten enough assurances from our party leadership and our brothers and sisters that joined us, that every member of the party shall be treated equally regardless of your status and position.
Arrangement for proper reintegration and harmonious coexistence continues.
I would remain steadfast in the struggle, keep to my words and live within the dictates of Almighty God.
“Your mandate remains atrust.
I shall uphold till the last days of my life.
Thanks for keeping fate with me.
Thanks for your patience and thanks for the spirit of working for our party, PDP.
May the Almighty God bless you all’’.