Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have described the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a “one-chance political vehicle,” while likening its members to prodigal children who could still be forgiven if they returned to the fold.

The remark came in response to ADC’s criticism that PDP governors were “dancing on the graves” of Nigerians killed in Zamfara State by attending their 7th meeting in Gusau on August 23 despite the prevailing insecurity.

In a statement issued by Emmanuel Agbo, Director-General of the PDP Governors’ Forum, the party dismissed ADC’s attack as misplaced, insisting that the Zamfara meeting was a pre-scheduled event and not an act of insensitivity.

“Ordinarily, we would not waste time joining issues with the ADC, but we are compelled to correct the false impression being forced on innocent Nigerians. “Playing politics with human lives is not our style. Rather than grandstanding, the ADC should have shown empathy by visiting affected communities,” the statement read.

The governors added that security challenges dominated their Zamfara deliberations, culminating in a communiqué that praised the state government’s efforts against banditry, condemned ongoing violence in Katsina, Plateau, Niger, and Benue, and urged the federal government to intensify protection of lives and property.

They further argued that the PDP had grown stronger since the ADC’s exit, accusing the latter of previously obstructing national unity and political harmony.

“Since their departure, the PDP has become more formidable, focused, and determined. That the ADC cannot see this is unsurprising, like the prodigal son, they never cared much for the father’s fortune,” the statement added.