…Party chieftains hail decision

From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja

Mariam Nneamaka Ali, wife of former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Ahmadu Ali, yesterday, joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mrs. Ali, who was accompanied by the Delta State APC chairman, Jones Ode Erue, Chief Frank Kokori, Chief Great Ogboru, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and other top party stalwarts and supporters was received by the National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun at the party’s national secretariat, National Woman Leader, Hajiya Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu and National Auditor, Chief George Moghalu.

Mrs. Ali said the decision to join the APC was to display the uniqueness of her family, adding that while she is a practising Catholic, her husband is a Muslim.

“A lot of persons may wonder why I am joining the APC; the answer is simple. I want to continue to render service to my people and Nigeria at large. I believe I will be doing myself a lot of disservice if I don’t fulfil this burning desire in me.

“I know also a lot of people will wonder why I have chosen to opt for a political party different from my husband’s. Again, the answer is not farfetched. My family is a unique family; it’s a family devoid of religious and ethnic differences. You are all aware that Ahmadu Ali is a Muslim and I am passionate Catholic. Also, my husband is from North Central and I am form the South South.

Therefore, religion and ethnicity do not play a role in our lives. It, therefore, suffices to say that my becoming an APC member and him being an active member of the PDP further displays the uniqueness of my family.

“We symbolise a people who want to serve a nation; a nation where oneness, love and peace reign supreme. Today marks the beginning of greater peace, love and oneness amongst all Nigerians. It is a new dawn, one nation, one destiny, one people. It is about an indivisible nation, Nigeria,” she said.

Chief Odigie-Oyegun said Mrs. Ali’s entry has added value and quality to the party and its leadership both in Delta State and at the national level.

“It is very clear from the spread, the quality of those who are heren today that this is indeed a major event. I am glad that this day has come that you are joining APC because of your determination to render service to your people and the nation,” he said.