Convention: Akpoti-Uduaghan tasks PDP members on innovation, cultural inclusivity

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Chairman of the Entertainment/Welfare Sub-Committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) elective National Convention says the party should inject vibrancy, new ideas and cultural inclusivity at its forthcoming Ibadan convention.

Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), said this at the inaugural meeting of her sub-committee meeting in Abuja.

She said that while the committee members were diligently selected, the party and Nigerians expect a great deal from them even as preparations for the convention were in full gear.

Akpoti-Uduaghan said that the sub-committee should not be limited to enriching the party members with foods and drinks but should come up with activities that will appeal to other Nigerians that would watch the programme through television sets.

“We must ensure that our entertainment cuts across the cultures of our dear country. We must make sure that no region is left out of representing and participating in the cultural festivities.

“We will expect a great deal from our host states, which is Oyo, because we would love to be entertained by their beautiful cultural groups and all that.

“We would expect intentional contributions, like we said, respect for all tribes and respect for all religions. The very best of Nigeria should be put to the fore,” she said.

Akpoti-Uduaghan added that the entertainment should be tailored to attract new members to the party, saying parties grow by the inflow of persons.

“There are some members of the ruling party and some of other smaller parties that must admire something in us and find hope and trust to join us.

“There are many Nigerians who have turned the age of 18 since the last convention, even from the last election and they are searching for a party upon which they can entrust their political future.

“So we must present our activities such that we will be the admired party for the youth,” she said.

Akpoti-Uduaghan said that one of the ways the sub-committee could do that is by incorporating their ideas especially through the musical acts and the cultures activities for that day.

She said that the sub-committee must open up to new vibes, new ideas, new participation and new vision,

She tasked the members to organised a pre-convention for cultural challenge in their respective states to get the best.

“On Friday today, as the chairperson of this committee, I will take it upon myself to put out a challenge for musical participation from my states and probably the best will win an award of a cash token and also a chance to participate,” she said.

Speaking to newsmen after the meeting, the party National Women Leader, Dr Amina Bryhm, who is also the secretary of the sub-committee, said that the preparations for the convention were in advance stage.

“You can see I am already wearing the uniform for the convention. So, we are not joking.

“For those who were thinking we need help, you can see the evidence, how prepared we are, that our fabrics are already out.

“All the committees are up and running. We are just doing finishing touches to all the caterers, all the artists that will be part of the event and we hope to organise a memorable convention,” she said.