By Suleiman Abubakar MAPSA
The Ward 8 Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State, Clement Chiazor, has alleged that he was pressured by the Delta State Government to issue a statement condemning the defection of Senator Ned Nwoko to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Chiazor’s claim was revealed in a statement released by Michael Ogar, the media consultant to Senator Nwoko, during a private meeting. He described the statement he had previously issued criticizing Nwoko’s defection as a product of coercion rather than his genuine opinion.
According to the statement, “It is evident that the Delta State Government, desperate to manage the fallout of Senator Nwoko’s departure, resorted to compelling party members to issue unfounded and poorly crafted attacks against him.”
The statement further explained that Senator Nwoko’s exit from the PDP was not sudden but driven by internal divisions and the party’s inability to meet the expectations of its members and constituents.
“Senator Nwoko, a founding member of the PDP since 1999, made a well-considered decision to leave due to the party’s failure to address pressing issues. Rather than focusing on these challenges, the Delta State Government has chosen to intimidate its members into making false claims,” the statement said.
Chiazor’s alleged coerced statement was described as an attempt by the PDP leadership in Delta State to discredit Nwoko’s move to the APC. The statement insisted that if the party had the confidence of its members, it would not need to resort to such tactics.
“Senator Nwoko remains focused on serving the people of Delta North and contributing to national development under the APC, a platform committed to progress and inclusivity,” it added.
The statement concluded by affirming that the people of Delta North support Senator Nwoko’s decision, believing it aligns with the quest for better governance and a brighter future for the region.
