Engineer Adeolu Akinwumi, a governorship aspirant under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo state, has firmly rejected the notion of a consensus candidate, insisting that all aspirants should undergo a primary election.
Akinwumi, who was the first to obtain his nomination form from the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, emphasized the importance of adhering to the party’s constitution and guidelines in selecting its flagbearer.
“The word consensus itself means agreeable to by all. For the fact that I have gone ahead to pick the nomination form does not shut the window of any other person picking the form,” Akinwumi stated.
He reiterated that the PDP’s constitution dictates the mode of primary, which is indirect, and allows for fair competition among aspirants.
Addressing the issue of zoning, Akinwumi highlighted that the National Working Committee had not taken an official position on the matter, affirming the freedom of all aspirants to obtain nomination forms.
“The national committee that gave me the form won’t have given me if there is zoning. That tells you that there is nothing like zoning,” he emphasized.
Akinwumi urged party leaders to ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for all aspirants.
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Meanwhile, Hon Tola Alabere, the state Chairman of the PDP, expressed optimism about the party’s chances in the upcoming governorship election in November.
Alabere criticized the ruling government at both state and national levels, asserting that the people of Ondo state are disillusioned with their governance.
He cautioned against vote buying during the election and denounced the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that it has nothing substantial to offer Nigerians.
“It is time for PDP to take over. The idea of collecting money during elections should be stopped if we want things to change for the better. The APC has nothing to offer Nigerians; it’s time to kick them out,” Alabere declared.
He called on the people of Ondo state to support the PDP and emphasized the importance of their efforts in securing victory on election day.
“This is the best time for the PDP to win. Consider your efforts when voting on election day. Let us resolve to work for the PDP, and we shall win by the special grace of God,” Alabere concluded.
