Primaries: Media Attacks Against My Principal Driven by Desperation — Aide

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja

The  Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki to the National Chairman, All Progressive Chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda has condemned what he described as a “deliberate campaign of calumny” being orchestrated in sections of the media following the recently concluded primary elections.

In a statement made available to journalists, the Tooki said while it was normal in every democratic contest to have both winners and losers, it was unacceptable for some aggrieved individuals to resort to blackmail, misinformation and character assassination because the outcome of the exercise did not favour their political interests.

According to him, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party had already established transparent and credible mechanisms through duly constituted appeal committees for dissatisfied aspirants to seek redress.

“The NWC has assured all stakeholders that every petition and complaint arising from the primaries will be treated fairly, transparently and strictly on its merit,” he stated.

He noted that instead of allowing the party’s internal democratic structures to function effectively, certain desperate elements had chosen to embark on media propaganda aimed at discrediting the process and maligning his principal before the conclusion of the appeal process.

The statement further explained that the guidelines for the conduct of the primaries were clear, stressing that results from various levels were expected to be collated appropriately while the formal declaration of winners would only come after all appeals had been duly considered.

“This procedure was deliberately designed to protect fairness, guarantee transparency and give every dissatisfied aspirant the constitutional right to seek redress before the relevant appeal committees,” the statement added.

The aide maintained that the appeal committees, working in collaboration with the NWC, were expected to carefully review all petitions before final decisions were taken in line with the party’s commitment to justice, inclusiveness and internal democracy.

He, however, accused some individuals of disregarding democratic principles and party supremacy by allegedly attempting to impose preferred candidates contrary to laid down rules and regulations.

According to him, the ongoing media attacks against his principal were not motivated by patriotism or concern for democracy, but by the desperation of individuals unwilling to subject themselves to the established procedures of the party.

He urged party members and supporters not to be misled by what he described as false narratives and distorted impressions being circulated in some quarters.

He also appreciated supporters for their understanding and steadfast commitment, assuring them that the party would continue to uphold truth, justice, unity and democratic values.