Idris Ahmed, Lokoja.
Barely four weeks to the conduct of the primary election of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), to pick its flag bearer, the Chairman of the party in Kogi state, Alhaji Abdullahi Bello has appealed to the National Working Committee and the relevant stakeholders to ensure a free, fair and credible election instead of the undemocratic zoning formula.
The state Chairman of the APC in an interview with journalists last week in Lokoja observed that the zoning formula is constitutional and if adopted by the party will not produce the true choice of the people, especially competence and merit.
While vehemently kicking against zoning of the Presidency, Bello noted that Nigeria may be saddled with incompetent, I’ll prepare, and misfit leadership that can hold back the progressing hand of the Nigerian clock.
He said, therefore, advised the APC leadership to disregard the zoning suggestion as such is tantamount to imposition of leadership on the majority.
” I am very optimistic that Alhaji Yahaya Bello will win the primaries because of the legacies he has already planted in Kogi state. He is the man to beat. He will replicate his achievement in Kogi to the entire nation” The party Chairman assured.
The party leader used the occasion to debunk allegations of imposition of candidates for the National and State Assembly election.
” APC as a party frowns at the imposition of candidates on the people. From the national, and state assemblies to all levels of contest APC, we will not impose anybody on the people. We believe in a true democracy.” The Chairman emphasized.
According to the party Chairman, Governor Yahaya Bello is a true Democrat who will provide a level playing ground for all aspirants.
“We are not imposing candidates on the people. This allegation of imposition is the handiwork of the cowards who are afraid of the contests at the primaries and I advised the public and entire members of our great party, the APC to disregard such rumors.” Bello said.
He however explained that the party has adopted 3 methods of primaries, one of which will be used to pick candidates for the various offices and constituencies, which includes direct, indirect primaries, and consensus.
