By Chesa Chesa
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Abuja urged leaders and members of All Progressives Congress (APC) to channel their energies into improving fortunes of the party in the forthcoming elections, and avoid squabbling that easily distract and create disharmony.
Receiving APC National Assembly leadership at the State House, the President reminded members of the proximity of the election dates set by thr Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), admonishing that positions should be harmonized with a bigger picture of winning elections and providing good governance.
“As you all know, the National Convention of our party, which we have committed to, is holding on the 26th March, 2022. And we cannot afford to do anything that will jeopardize the chances of the party in the 2023 General Elections.
“The limited time frame of the INEC time table does not permit us any room for delay or further squabbling. We must therefore in the light of this reality consistently keep our eyes on the ball and refuse any distraction.
“A critical segment of our national democratic process is the National Assembly. Being representatives of our people from all over the country, the National Assembly especially the 9th Assembly has exhibited commitment to a peaceful democratic process in its conduct and utmost maturity in its relationship with other arms of government. I commend you, the leadership for this success.
“Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members, we have an obligation to conduct the upcoming convention in a manner that not only fortifies the unity of our party but also improves the prospects of our electoral fortunes in the 2023 general elections. You have an important role to play in ensuring that this happens,’’ he said.
President Buhari told the lawmakers that a zoning template was produced and adopted by the party after wide consultations in order to ensure that the leadership was reflective of the diversity in unity while representing various dynamic interests.
“It is imperative that we adhere to that template,’’ he noted, adding: “The time available to us is limited and I therefore enjoin you to collaborate with the various stakeholders within and outside your respective states and zones to agree to work together and harmoniously in electing into the allotted positions appropriately, as stipulated in the provided template.
“This will not only produce a smooth process and limit friction but will enhance the image of the party positively and strengthen our over-all position of dominance in the political space.’’
The APC lawmakers were led to the meeting by the Senate President, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawal and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Fielding questions after, President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan said notwithstanding the decision of the party hierarchy to opt for the emergence of candidates via consensus during its convention on Saturday, the party would not bar any member from contesting for any position.
Senator Lawan spoke following concerns over why the party allowed candidates to spend money to secure application forms to contest the various positions during the event slated for Saturday.
Lawan said the party has resolved to work towards the emergence of consensus candidates to ensure a rancor-free convention. Lawan, however, noted that democracy was an all comers affair, therefore, members were free to exercise their rights.
He explained that the President, during their closed door session, emphasized the need for party members to be united ahead of the exercise, adding that it was a very important convention for the party.
