By PETER OKUTU

ABAKALIKI— GOVERNOR Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State, Tuesday, called on citizens and members of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in the state to ignore the clamour by some aggrieved members to create a factional group within the party.

The governor, who made the call on the occasion of the 53rd anniversary of Nigerian independence and 17th anniversary of the creation of Ebonyi State at Abakaliki township stadium, stated that in spite of the blackmail and propaganda by detractors, the PDP would remain strong and more resilient in the game of national politics.

According to him, for as much as the aggrieved members of the party have the right to exercise their freedom, they should not use the privilege to create an atmosphere of disorder and disunity in the country.

He said: “While we are still on the subject of politics, let me appeal to the good people of Ebonyi State to ignore the noise about the so-called new PDP.

“In spite of relentless blackmail and propaganda by detractors, the People’s Democratic Party remains the strongest and unifying national platform. The flashes we witness here and there are mere storms in the tea cup and the party shall emerge stronger and more resilient.

“There is nothing unusual about the times we are in because politics involves periodic hiccups and heated arguments. What matter is that in the end any disagreements will be resolved and the party will forge ahead in strength and purpose.”