‘I am still a member of the PDP’ 

FORMER Minister of Health, Prpf. Onyebuchi Chukwu, has explained how he was schemed out of the Ebonyi State governorship election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

      Chukwu, who is most remembered for his dogged fight and contribution towards kicking Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) out of the country, in a press statement said he is still a member of the PDP and is seeking redress within the party.

       The statement reads: “It is common knowledge that I am not yet the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State in the 2015 general elections, neither am I the gubernatorial candidate of any other party for that matter.

    “It will be recalled that I resigned my appointment as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in response to the passionate invitation by the majority of Ebonyi State PDP faithfuls and the generality of Ebonyians to contest the Ebonyi State governorship election on the platform of the PDP.

     “However, in the process, I was schemed out of the race through the manipulation of the process by some individuals who for their own reasons opposed my gubernatorial aspiration.

     “I have decided to seek redress within the PDP. Indeed, I petitioned the National Chairman of the party on the December 9, 2014, a petition which I copied other party leaders. However, apart from an acknowledgement copy of my petition, the party has not responded to the petition. I am still hopeful that the party will grant me fair hearing which is indeed my right as a member of the party.

     “I wish to make it clear that I am still a member of the PDP. I am aware that in the pervading confusion surrounding the political developments in Ebonyi State, my supporters have been longing for a statement from me. I have kept silent all this while because I was pursuing and hoping for quick justice through the internal mechanism of my party. However, I do acknowledge that it will be improper to keep them waiting indefinitely.”

      Chukwu thanked all his supporters, most of whom have stood by him till this moment for their unprecedented show of support, solidarity and love. “I appreciate the resources including money, material and time that have been expended by many of them.