LAGOS APC CANDIDATE TUSSLE: Gov. Ambode talks tough, makes damaging allegations against Sanwo-Olu
Ahead of the All Progressives Congress, APC Governorship primaries in Lagos tomorrow, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has appealed to the party’s National Working Committee, NWC, to abide by the tenets and principles of the party by conducting free and fair primaries.
Governor Ambode who made the appeal while addressing a World Press Conference on the state of affairs in the APC in Lagos State said as an aspirant in the primaries, he was yet to receive the guidelines for the party’s nomination less than 24 hours to the event.
The Governor who said he had obtained information that there was a plan to disenfranchise some registered members during the primaries urged the APC NWC and electoral committee to make amends.
Governor Ambode who claimed that his achievements in the development of the State had drawn people to join the APC, used the opportunity to urge members of the party to give him their support as the Party’s gubernatorial candidate.
Governor Ambode noted that the current political situation in the State had caused palpable tension and unnecessary fears amongst residents said security information available to his administration indicates that some people were planning to foment trouble under the guise of conducting the Primaries.
Ambode said “Security reports available to the State Government indicate that there is an ongoing recruitment and arming of political thugs to disrupt the tranquil atmosphere of Lagos State, in the guise of holding Primary Elections.
As a responsible Government that has invested so much in enhancing security of lives and property in the State to enable Lagosians pursue their lawful endeavours, we will not allow any disruptive elements to cause panic or wreak havoc that will affect the progressive strides which Lagosians are known for. This is more so that we have the assurances of our party Leaders to conduct free and fair primary elections for aspirants into the various political offices. It has become imperative to put every stakeholder on notice, especially the Federal Government and Security Agencies, to take more than a passing interest in the development in this State”
The Governor assured residents that his administration would do the needful in collaboration with relevant security agencies to prevent the breakdown of law and order during the primaries, the campaigns and election periods.
While responding to questions on the reported endorsement of an aspirant by the APC leaders, Governor Ambode said the candidate was not fit to govern and fielding him would jeopardize the chances of the APC in Lagos.
”The aspirant that is being put up to compete against us is not a fit and proper person, Party leaders and even party members have been misled, so I will appeal to all our leaders to have a rethink” he said
Mr. Ambode however reiterated his commitment to the APC and the outcome of the primaries.
