The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the federal government to engage in genuine dialogue with organised labour and other stakeholders over petrol subsidy removal to reach a fair and reasonable solution.

The party advised in a communique at a retreat for the elected officials on the platform of PDP on Saturday in Bauchi.

The party, in the communique signed by its acting national chairman, Umar Damagum, expressed concerns over what it described as the quick removal of the subsidy and the lack of adequate consultation.

The party congratulated all its elected officials in the last general elections and urged them to deliver quality governance to Nigerians at all levels.

While urging the judiciary to respect and apply the Electoral Act impartially on various ongoing litigations at the tribunal, it pledged to support party members and candidates in various tribunals to seek redress for electoral injustices and defend victorious candidates.

The retreat also featured discussions around good governance, democratic accountability, the party’s role in opposition, prevalent poverty, the decline in the quality of life of Nigerians, and ongoing post-election judicial processes.

“The members agreed on the need for constant engagement and focus on issues concerning the welfare, stability, economy, and security of Nigeria,” it said.

It called on PDP legislators and governors to collaborate as partners in development, avoiding conflict that undermined the party’s effectiveness.

The party identified key issues for legislative focus, including insecurity, unemployment, inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and strategies for national development.

It stressed the need for governors and legislators to respect and contribute to the party’s success.

It added that support would be given to candidates that promote unity, independence, and viability of the legislature, necessary for good governance and democratic accountability.

On gender inclusion, the retreat concluded with a commitment to prioritising gender equality and inclusion.

Attendees at the retreat included governors, and PDP elected members of the NASS, PDP National Working Committee members, members of the Board of Trustees, and other party stakeholders. 

(NAN)