National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Makarfi on Tuesday inaugurated the party’s National Convention Planning Committee headed by Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa with a charge that they immediately devote themselves to the preparations for the Special Non-Elective National Convention on August 12.

Speaking at the brief ceremony held at the Chida International Hotel, Abuja, Makarfi said that the committee had exhibited high level of commitment and loyalty to the party, stressing that the national leadership has confidence in their ability to organise a hitch-free convention.

“We appreciate your commitment towards ensuring that we are back to power at the centre and in more states. I urge you all to work together as a team to ensure the success of the convention and be rest assured of the party’s support where necessary,” he said.

The chairman proclaimed that with the inauguration of the committee, the party was officially set to recover its lost grounds.

In his response, Okowa thanked the party for the opportunity to serve, promising that the members would immediately devote themselves to the onerous task of making the convention a successful one.

“The committee is comprised of eminent Nigerians and party chieftains with vast experience. We shall organise a convention that will not only positively shake Abuja but the entire country. The task before the committee is a daunting one as we have barely 48 hours to plan and this requires that all hands must be on deck to ensure that the committee delivers on its mandate,” he said.

Present at the inauguration were party chieftains including Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, Senator Liyel Imoke, Babangida Aliyu and Celestine Omehia, former PDP Governors of Delta, Cross River, Niger and Rivers states.

•Photo shows Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (middle); Senator Ben Obi (left); and Senator Biodun Olujimi, during the inauguration of PDP National Convention Planning Committee, on Tuesday in Abuja.