The Peoples Democratic Party, on Tuesday, presented a Certificate of Return to its Ondo State governorship candidate, former Deputy Governor, Agboola Ajayi.

Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission has set November 16, 2024, as the scheduled date for the Ondo State Governorship election.

The former Deputy Governor won the primary conducted by PDP on Thursday last week.

In his welcome remarks, the Acting National Chairman of the party, Ambassador Umar Damagum, while presenting the Certificate of Return, noted that dissenting voices marked the APC primary.

Damagum said, “At a time our opponents could not put their acts together, but we in the opposition much was expected of us and we shamed them, we produced a candidate without a dissenting voice. It’s because of what we have put in place that has made this possible.”

Describing the steps taken by the PDP to ensure a smooth primary process, Damagum stated, “During our stakeholders meeting, we agreed that all the aspirants must come from the South, and by the grace of God, that is what happened. This shows the party’s preparedness to take over Ondo State.

“Even from the last election we know that Ondo is PDP and from the stakeholders meeting and other engagements, we were able to come out with a single candidate.”

He advised Ajayi not to assume that all of his fellow aspirants have conceded to him.

Damagum stressed the significance of extending efforts to secure their support and ensure victory for the PDP in the state.

The PDP National Chairman highlighted the challenge of winning the state for the PDP and encouraged Ajayi to commence vigorous campaigning, including door-to-door outreach.

He continued, “You must work hard to make sure PDP takes Ondo State, but we will have our stakeholders meeting in the South West on Monday and work for the party.

“Unlike the other parties, we have an internal working mechanism and when we talk to ourselves we are not garrison commanders, but we engage and that is why till today PDP remains a brand. It is the only party that you will come as nobody and becomes somebody.”

In his acceptance speech, the PDP gubernatorial candidate Ajayi pledged wholehearted commitment to securing victory in the forthcoming election slated for November 16.

Ajayi highlighted that the upcoming gubernatorial election offers the PDP a distinct chance to foster genuine and enduring development for the people of Ondo, as well as for the party.

He said: “It is truly humbling, and I accept this responsibility and promise to carry out work towards winning the upcoming election with utmost dedication as we all embark on a new journey in service to our beloved Ondo State and our party, the PDP.

“This election is a defining moment for us;  It is about all of us coming together to chart a new course for Ondo State.

“It is about embracing our collective vision and aspirations for a better, more prosperous future; it, therefore, cannot be about me alone.

“The forthcoming November 16th governorship election presents us a unique opportunity to bring about real and sustainable development for the people of Ondo, and the PDP, as the largest political party in Africa, is positioned to lead this transformational change.

“The challenges we face, from poverty to unemployment, insecurity and economic hardship, require urgent and decisive action. We cannot afford to dwell on past mistakes or divisive rhetoric.

“Instead, we must focus on uniting to provide solutions that prioritize the well-being of our people and communities.

“Our vision for Ondo State is one of growth, opportunity, and equity. We envision a state where every child has access to quality education, where healthcare is affordable and accessible, and where infrastructure supports economic growth and connectivity.”

By Elvis Omoregie, Benin

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, and member of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Hon. Charles Idahosa, has resigned his membership of the party.

He announced his decision to quit the PDP in a letter titled “Letter of Resignation” which was addressed to the Chairman of Ehor Ward 1 of the party in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State and copied to the Chairman, BoT of the PDP, South South National Vice Chairman, the State Chairman and Uhunmwonde Local Government Chairman of the party.

“I trust this letter finds you well. I am reaching out to formally announce my decision to resign from both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and my role as a member of the Board of Trustees (BOT). As a representative of the South South Nigerian region, this decision comes after considerable contemplation and reflection on my personal and political journey.

“Throughout my tenure within the Peoples Democratic Party, I have been privileged to contribute to its vision and mission. However, after careful consideration, I believe it is time for me to pursue new paths and opportunities beyond the party’s confines.

“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the PDP community for their unwavering support and camaraderie during my time of service. I remain committed to upholding the values and principles that have guided my political engagement thus far. I look forward to new avenues of growth and contribution, and I extend my best wishes to the Peoples Democratic Party as it continues its important work,” the letter read.

Honourable Idahosa, a former Local Government Chairman and Political Adviser to ex-Comrade Governor Adams Oshiomhole, did not however indicate his next political move.

By Austine Emmanuel, Kaduna

A Chieftain of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), in Kaduna state, Hon. Victor Matthew Bobai has announced his resignation from the party to team up with the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state.

Bobai said he is an ardent supporter of the Governor Uba Sani’s led administration and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and remains committed to the fight for good governance and the establishment of a just and equitable government in Kaduna state.

Bobai, had served Kaduna PDP in various capacities under past Governors, like Ahmed Makarfi, former Vice President, Namadi Sambo, the late Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, among others before APC took over power in Kaduna state in 2015.

He also served as Assistant Director of Media and Publicity, Kaduna PDP Directorate of Campaign Management Committee in the 2023 general elections.

In a letter dated April 22 and tendered to his Sabon Tasha Ward, Chikun LGA Kaduna state, Bobai announced his defection to the ruling All Progressive Congress, (APC).

He averred that by resigning from the PDP he is pledging his hundred percent loyalty to Senator Uba Sani, the executive governor of Kaduna state, and the coordinator of all APC Northwest governors in the view to put their heads together to deliver the dividends of democracy to all and sundry, while appreciating the PDP for giving him decades of opportunities.

“I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to formally inform you of my decision to resign my membership from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

“After careful consideration and reflection, I have come to the conclusion that it is in the best interest of my constituents and the development of our dear state to align myself with the All Progressives Congress (APC). I have been an ardent supporter of Senator Uba Sani, the executive governor of Kaduna state, and President Bola Tinubu, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Joining the APC will allow me to contribute more effectively to the progress and development of my community.

“I am committed to the fight for good governance and the establishment of a just and equitable government in our state. By resigning from the PDP and pledging my loyalty to Senator Uba Sani, the executive governor of Kaduna state, and the coordinator of all APC Northwest governors, I am reaffirming my dedication to this cause.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the PDP for the opportunities and experiences I have gained during my membership. I am grateful for the support and guidance I have received from the party.

“Please consider this letter as my formal resignation from the PDP, effective immediately. I kindly request that you update your records accordingly.

“Thank you for your understanding and support in this matter. I look forward to continuing my political journey with the APC and contributing to the betterment of our dear state,” Bobai said.