•Says Akeredolu Is Conscience Of APC
•We Must Uphold Core Democratic Values- Gov Akeredolu
Former Governor of Nasarawa State and senator representing Nasarawa central, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura on Saturday visited the Chairman of the Southwest Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, ahead of the March 26, National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The former Governor visited Governor Akeredolu as part of his ongoing consultations to solicit support for his aspiration to contest the position of the APC National Chairman.
Al-Makura and members of his campaign council were received by the Governor at the government house, Alagbaka, Akure, the state capital.
The former Governor said he decided to visit the sunshine state to inform Governor Akeredolu of his aspiration because he is one of the leaders of the country and the conscience of the APC due to his sincerity and courage.
“We are here with members of my campaign council to see you as one of the leaders of this country. As one of those who believe in true democracy. As one of those who has championed the inner mind of the people when it comes to justice, fairness and just cause.
“We feel you have a role to play in determining and shaping how this party (APC) is put together, especially in this critical time of transition. We must ensure the continuity of the gains we have had from President Muhammadu Buhari.
“This is the motivating factor that has made me throw my hat into the ring to consider contesting the office of the National chairman. We must give this party a principle , a good policy and raise the hope of our people. There is something that gives me comfort when I think about APC. It’s a party I am faithful to, to a fault. Never in the history of this country has different parties come together and work together and put harmonious and United focus to drive the process of unity in the country.
“President Buhari has held that tenaciously and made that the resolve and the sanctity of his administration. It has added value and we will just sustain it. We are here to solicit your support and cooperation.” Al-Makura submitted.
He earlier hailed Governor Akeredolu for changing the face of Ondo State within five years, stressing that the Governor has added values to the sunshine state.
Responding, Arakunrin Akeredolu thanked Al-Makura for the visit, while describing him as a competent and committed party man.
Governor Akeredolu said the APC must establish a core value which the party must be known for, adding that there must be general understanding among leaders and stakeholders of the party.
“One thing that comes out is APC value. We must be able to establish one, or else we are only just wasting time. What are our core values? Do we really believe in democratic principles?
“Even if we are going to have consensus, it is consensus and not ‘one person sensus’, so if we must have consensus then it must be consensus, and that is my own approach.
“Recently, there was a bye-election in Ondo state here, some poeple said they wanted to contest and I asked all of them to go and contest and whoever wins would be supported by all. A young man that won I didn’t know him. Very very young. I have never seen him before.
“I would not know what would have happened if we had imposed someone on the people. So, the young man won the primary and the general election. So, we must establish our principles and core values, I stand by that.” Akeredolu emphasised.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
March 5, 2022.
📷 Blessed Michael
