By Mu'azu Osekalago

The Senate President, Chief David Mark, has commended Governor Aliyu Akwe Doma for improving the lot of the people of Nasarawa State, describing the governor as "a true shining example of good governance."

Senator mark who made the commendation in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, during the two- day seminar organized by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) North-Central zone for its party officers, said Governor Doma’s government policies and programmes were in line with the PDP manifesto.

"His urban renewal programme alongside the massive roads construction projects together with the revolutionary steps in the water sector are indeed worthy of commendation and emulation," Mark stressed, urging the governor to continue with the good works.

The senate president reiterated his commitment to the full implementation of President Umar Yar’adua’s 7-point agenda, calling on party leaders to ensure that government activities were conducted in conformity with the manifestoe of PDP.

Senator Mark who was represented by the PDP Senator representing Taraba North, Mr. Anthony Manzo, enjoined the party leaders to adhere to the doctrine of party supremacy.

He stressed the need for the entrenchment of internal party democracy and the rule of law which, according to him, "are essential elements for a vibrant democracy in Nigeria".

"As the ruling party, our party has the burden of leading by example. We must ensure that internal democracy is deeply entrenched in our party and that the PDP programmes are respected," the senate president advised.

In a keynote address at the seminar, Benue State Governor, Chief Gabriel Suswam, listed corruption, insecurity and "the culture of violence and electoral malpractices in politics" as the major threats to Nigerian democracy.

He called on Nigerians to support the fight against corruption, "especially now that the efforts are anchored on the principle of the rule of law and due process."

Governor Suswam called for a new revenue sharing formula that would enhance equitable distribution of national resources to all parts of the federation.

The governor who was represented by his deputy, Chief Steven Lawani, spoke specifically on "Peoples Democratic Party and the Consolidation of Democracy in Nigeria."

He said democracy as presently practiced in Nigeria was less than perfect, enjoining PDP leaders to work toward "perfecting the system in spite of the trials and tribulation Nigeria is experiencing as a nation."

The 2- day seminar with the theme: "Party Leadership in Best Values," featured paper presentation on varied areas of Nigeria’s nascent democracy.