By Tony Olisa Mbeki
Abuja, Nigeria – In an unequivocal declaration of preparedness, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, has assured party faithful and the general populace of the party’s robust readiness for the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in Edo and Osun states.
Ezeokenwa, speaking during his appearance on AIT’s “Democracy Today” program on January 31, 2024, disclosed that the party’s National Working Committee, acting on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC), has approved direct primaries in February for the Edo Gubernatorial election scheduled for September. This pivotal move underscores APGA’s dedication to a thoroughly democratic process, ensuring that every member’s voice contributes directly to the nomination of their gubernatorial candidate.
The APGA National Chairman stated that the decision to adopt direct primaries aligns with the party’s strategy to enhance mobilization and comprehensive verification of its members throughout all wards in Edo State, thus laying a solid foundation for a robust performance in the main governorship election. Barr. Ezeokenwa expressed confidence that this method will not only galvanize party unity but also serve as a key preparatory step for what is anticipated to be a tightly contested race.
Barr. Ezeokenwa also revealed that the party will publish its guidelines for both the Edo and Osun elections in the Sun Newspaper on Thursday, February 1st, 2024, providing clarity on the election roadmap for both Edo, scheduled for 21st September 2024, and Osun gubernatorial election to be held on 16th November 2024.
With the recent completion of the status verification by the INEC Election Monitoring Team, which has attested to APGA’s pristine compliance, the National Chairman noted that the party is now primed and confident in aspiring to clinch the gubernatorial seat in Edo.
Barr. Ezeokenwa addressed and minimised concerns regarding any assumed internal disputes within the party. He boldly affirmed that APGA is stronger than ever, united in the face of political opportunists whom he described as political merchants who emerge around the season of elections. He noted that the solid front presented by the party stands testament to its resilience and unwavering determination to achieve its electoral objectives.
In these strategic and unifying times, APGA extends its appreciation to its members for their steadfastness and invites the citizens of Edo and Osun states to observe the imminent political advancements as the party advances towards a democratic and prosperous future.
