FROM SAMSON ALFA, Minna
Recent endorsement of Niger State Governor, Muhammad Umair Bago by the All Progressives Congress, APC, for second term has been described as premature, unnecessary and toying in a dangerous pedestrian.
A statement titled “Soul of Democracy” from Umar Abdulkadir Agaie, a stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, now romancing with the coalition group of ADC, titled “Soul of Democracy” disclosed that such intention is already overheating the polity without cause.
“Two years into a four-year term, the ruling APC is already campaigning for a candidate without waiting for INEC directives. This is not politics; this is desperation of our selfish leaders to the detriment of Nigeria masses”.
He pointed out that political activities for the nomination or election of candidates to any office can only begin after the Independent National Electoral Commission ,INEC, releases the official time table and schedule of political activities.
According to Abdulkadir, the process for producing a party’s flag bearer is clear: only duly accredited delegates; from ward, local government, state, and national levels can elect candidates.
According to him, those who served as delegates in the 2022 primaries have long completed their assignment. Until new delegates are elected, no group of stakeholders can claim the authority to anoint a candidate.
Umar pointed out that such acts is not peculiar to APC,but all political party, only elected delegates decide who is an aspirant or a candidate,adding that in a situation where only one candidate emerge the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act mandate that delegates must still vote, through ‘ayes’ and ‘nays’ to confirm a candidate.
He was of the opinion that the so-called APC stakeholders endorsing Bago have no such authority,and advise that rather than engaging in this premature politicking, the APC should focus on delivering the dividends of democracy and fulfilling the promises made to the people of Niger State.
“It is evident that, the Bago camp is desperate to avoid competition, particularly the prospect of a formidable challenge from Mamman Nami in the 2027 gubernatorial race.”why the rush to “endorse Bago”.
“There is no need for Governor Bago to entertain any fear, especially if Muhammadu Nami is stepping forward to contest and if really Bago’s record is as good as his supporters proclaim”, he said.
He added that Nami as a true democrat has already shown his commitment to due process.
In his recent Facebook page, he urged his supporters to remain patient, await INEC’s official election timeline, and prepare to strategize together when the time is right.
“If Bago’s achievements are as robust as claimed, he should allow democracy to thrive but not on the suppression of choice, but on the courage to let the people’s will prevail”, Umar re-emphasised.
