The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is gearing up for the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states, expressing confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will face significant challenges in securing victories.
Umar Damagum, the acting national chairman of the PDP, made this assertion during the inauguration of the PDP National Campaign Councils for the Edo and Ondo governorship elections on Thursday in Abuja.
Damagum emphasized that the selection process of the candidates in both states demonstrates the party’s strong position and likelihood of success. He assured that the PDP would not allow its victories to be undermined.
“Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has laid a strong foundation for our success in the state election,” Damagum stated. “We will not sit down and allow anyone to search, grab, and steal. We will be battle-ready for any attempt to take away our fortune.”
Damagum praised Governor Obaseki’s achievements, stating, “Our records in Edo State speak volumes. We have done exceptionally well, and we are proud of the governor’s contributions. Those who think they can take Edo will find it very difficult because we are committed to democracy.”
Regarding Ondo State, Damagum expressed optimism and encouraged the residents to see the forthcoming election as an opportunity for positive change. He acknowledged past mistakes but highlighted the party’s renewed commitment and the emergence of a promising candidate.
“You have a brand new candidate, who is highly endowed with wisdom. His emergence has a hand of God in it,” he said, urging the campaign councils to be fearless and dedicated to securing victory.
Damagum also pledged the party’s support to the campaign councils, encouraging them to be vigilant and prepared for any tactics from the opposition.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Edo campaign council, consisting of 148 members, is chaired by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, with Governors Sherrif Oborevwori of Delta and Kefas Agbu of Taraba as deputy chairmen. The Ondo Campaign Council, with 177 members, is chaired by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun, with his counterparts Dauda Lawal of Zamfara and Caleb Muftwang of Plateau serving as deputy chairmen.
Governor Fintiri, speaking on behalf of the campaign councils, assured the PDP of their commitment to the assignment. He highlighted the party’s strong prospects in both states, particularly leveraging Governor Obaseki’s performance in Edo.
Chief Tom Ikimi, a PDP Chieftain in Edo, also expressed confidence in the party’s success, citing Governor Obaseki’s distinguished performance, including his initiative to raise the basic salary to N70,000 for all workers.
Former National Chairman for the South-West PDP, Dr. Eddy Olafeso, voiced optimism about the party’s chances in Ondo, noting the unity among party leaders and stakeholders behind the PDP candidate, Agboola Ajayi. He called for continued support from party leaders and elected members to ensure victory.
The PDP is poised for a vigorous campaign, determined to secure victories in both Edo and Ondo states, and build on the foundation laid by previous administrations.
