Senate President David Mark has in unmistakable terms condemned the consistent attacks on President Goodluck Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign train describing the actions of the perpetrators as despicable .
President Jonathan and the PDP campaign train was reportedly attacked in Katsina, Kano and Bauchi states by thugs believed to be supporters opposition political party.
Mark said the attack on the PDP is an affront on Democracy and a betrayal of the peace pact entered into by the political parties and their candidates.
Mark who spoke at the flag off of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) PDP Presidential and National Assembly campaign in Bwari area council near Abuja today (Friday) said the conduct of the supporters of opposition party is condemnable by any right thinking member of the society.
He said: “We condemn this unwarranted violent attacks on the PDP and its candidates. They have campaigned in other parts of the country without molestation. We should be allowed to campaign freely. The opposition must stop this desperation and allow Nigerians to decide.
“This election must not be a do or die affair. The campaign is an avenue to tell the electorate what you have done and what you intend to do for them. It should not be turned to a battle field.
“Any democracy that stops Nigerians from moving round freely is not the type of democracy we want. Nigerians must be free to go to the south and to the North without hinderance. Those who want to encourage hatred amongst Nigerians must think twice. We must allow for freedom of movement.
“We must allow people to campaign any where they want. Those of us who are at the helm of affairs must take full responsibility for any misconduct or misdemeanor of our supporters or followers.
“Nobody should intimidate any PDP candidates anywhere in Nigeria. Campaigns should be based on issues and not attack on personalities. The PDP will never be intimidated in any part of this country. This country belongs to all of us. We are all free citizens “.
For Mark, President Jonathan is still the best choice for the nation reiterating that PDP will deliver on its transformation programmes including the revival of the rail way system of transportation , Education and Health and other social services.
The FCT Senator Philip Aduda, Niger state Governor Babangida Aliyu and FCT Minister Bala Mohammed in their separate remarks urged Nigerians to remain steadfast with the PDP.
