The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi state has expressed readiness to take over the seat of government in the state by ousting Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in the next governorship election.
The State Party Chairman Muhammed Sanni Gambo, stated this at the State Working Committee (SWC)and State Executive Committee (SEC) meeting at the PDP Secretariat in Lokoja.
According to Gambo, Kogi State was better off under the PDP, and assured that “Kogi PDP has bounced back. Our story is a story of resilience.
“Recalled the good old days of the PDP. Everybody was happy, life was good. We built Housing estates, constructed roads, and our hospitals were operational. People hardly went to bed without three square meals. Our youths had employment. Let me once again assure the people of Kogi State that the PDP, under my leadership, is back, with full force, to restore the lost glory of our State” the chairman stated.
He assured the people of Kogi State that the PDP has heard their cries and has come to salvage the situation, saying that to meet their yearning and aspirations, the party has accepted the call for restoration.
“To this end, our Party has put in place the blueprint for the rapid socio-economic development of Kogi State. Our challenges as a Party are over. Our current story as a Party is a story of no stopping us. We are now repositioned to take over Aso Rock and Lugard House, respectively. Nothing, I repeat, nothing is stopping us.
On security, he noted that the nation, and Kogi State in particular, is at a crossroads, saying that sleeping with “two eyes closed” has become a significant challenge.
“As a party, we call on all levels of government to intensify protection of lives and property. The Kogi PDP stands ready to collaborate on concrete suggestions to secure our people. While we commend the state government’s efforts, we stress that more needs to be done, especially in Kogi West and other affected areas.
“A secure State is a prerequisite for any political or developmental progress. We will present actionable ideas that enable citizens to live, work, and travel with confidence and security.
“There must be a secure nation and State before a political party. Consequently, we are ready to collaborate with the Government to provide some strategies that will lead to the fight against insecurity in our State.
Ahead of the forthcoming local government election in the state, he expressed the party’s readiness to participate fully and make an impact, noting that the majority of the people reside in rural areas.
His words, “This is to ensure a fair contest. The majority of our citizens live at the grassroots. For them to truly benefit from democracy is the reason why the PDP will be contesting.
“We therefore urge the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) to extend the timetable for candidate submissions. The current abrupt closure of forms is unacceptable and appears designed to exclude the PDP. An extension is necessary, and we are confident that the PDP will win decisively.
“Let me place on record that during the PDP administration, our local Government witnessed robust administration, with the people as the greatest beneficiaries. We want to reenact that same feat and present credible candidates.
He noted that the party has equally resolved to establish reconciliation and other committees to address grievances and bring all members together, adding that in the coming days, these committees will reach out to every stakeholder to foster unity and inclusivity.
“Our party belongs to the people, women, youth, and all segments of society. As State Chairman, I reaffirm the Federal High Court’s landmark judgment of 10 November, which validated my election as the duly elected Chairman. I thank God for this justice. I commend the Judiciary for ensuring that a man without a godfather or financial influence will receive justice. I therefore call on all members to support the forward march of our party, pending any higher authority that may alter this mandate, which I doubt.
“To those who have left our fold or remain on the fence: we invite you back. Do not abandon the house you helped build. Return and participate in the decision-making process. Our priority is the development of the PDP, Kogi State, and Nigeria, not personal vendettas.
