PDP Accuses Plot to Blackmail Al-Makura Amid Nasarawa Property Sale Protest
The Nasarawa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has claimed that the recent demonstration by Nasarawa residents living in Lagos, protesting the alleged sale of state government properties, is being characterized as an effort to tarnish the reputation of former governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura.
Francis Orogu, the State Chairman of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed his views during a press conference in Lafia yesterday regarding the tension arising from the recent protest.
He stated, "The current situation appears to be an attempt to smear Al-Makura's reputation because he is not providing them with the political support they desire. They are dissatisfied with the level of political support, particularly regarding the tribunal issue, so they believe their next move is to undermine him."
Orogu characterized the protest as a political maneuver and an effort by Abdullahi Sule's government to exert pressure on a man who is not offering the desired support, given his ongoing legal case.
"It's a political strategy to escalate internal tension. The sale of Nasarawa State properties is not a secret. It is common knowledge that properties were sold during the previous administration. It was evident that Nasarawa State properties were gathered and presented to the 8th Assembly. They deliberated and swiftly approved it, and these properties were subsequently sold."
He also highlighted that Governor Sule had spent four years in office without realizing that these properties were sold until the current situation emerged.
Orogu, as an opposition leader in the state, emphasized that his views were rooted in his sense of patriotism and commitment to truth. He made it clear that he had disagreed with Al-Makura in the past and even played a role in nearly impeaching him while serving as the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly. His actions were driven by his duty to the state rather than personal animosity.
He asserted that the ongoing events in Lagos were simply an attempt by a group of individuals to create an opportunity to implicate a former political opponent who had completed his tenure and was now politically inactive.
Orogu argued that Sule and his team were attempting to hold Al-Makura accountable and gain his support. However, he questioned whether Al-Makura was the sole purchaser of the properties in question. He claimed to possess all relevant records and was currently involved in an appeal case in the Court of Appeals. He emphasized that he had not been bribed to share these records and had refused to use them for blackmail.
Finally, Orogu challenged Governor Sule to reveal the identity of the individual or entity that purchased a valuable property in Apapa, Lagos for a significantly reduced price, well below its actual market value. He maintained that he had records of these transactions and would not allow himself to be used for personal gain. His actions, he asserted, were motivated by principles, conscience, and a commitment to justice.
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