Disquiet in Borno PDP over Sheriff

There is crack in the ranks of founding members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Borno State following the resolve of former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff to join the party.

There are indications that some PDP members who are “aggrieved” with the development would dump the PDP.

A source said some of them would not have the patience to sit with Sheriff under the same roof because of the fierce political rivalry they had with him in the past.

Checks by our correspondent in Maiduguri showed that some prominent PDP stalwarts in the state are already jittery about the coming of Sheriff to the party.

Sources said some former ministers, senators and board members are afraid that Sheriff, who already has his political structure on ground may likely take over the party.

Since 1999, the PDP had never produced a governor in Borno State and most of its members only relied on patronage from the federal government with ministerial slots and other juicy appointments.

Pundits believe that Sheriff, a three term Senator who also served as governor from 2003 to 2011 may likely give the ruling APC a run for its money when he support another candidate for the gubernatorial election under the PDP.

In 2003, Sheriff who was then a Senator on the platform of the APP chased out the then Governor late Mala Kachalla from the party.

Some of the prominent PDP stalwarts that are allegedly not comfortable with Sheriff joining their fold include former ministers of the FCT Architect Ibrahim Bunu and Engineer Abba Gana.

It was also gathered that former minister of Defence Dr. Shettima Mustapha was also not favourably disposed to the defection.

However, secretary of the PDP Youth Forum in Borno State, Umar Sanda said they are tired of playing what he called “Second Fiddle” in national politics.

“We are aware that most of the chieftains of PDP in Borno State are not happy that Sheriff is joining us but that is their personal opinion. As far as youth are concerned, he is warmly welcome,” he said.