The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State has unveiled its candidates for the July 12 council elections, with the party’s Chairman, Philip Aivoji, conspicuously absent.

The former Deputy National Chairman of the party, Bode George, while speaking at the unveiling ceremony, yesterday, dismissed claims that the party is dead, saying that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is on its way to oblivion, given the economic situation of the country.

George, who was flanked by several party stalwarts, including PDP’s South-West Legal Adviser, Dr Amos Fawole; Board of Trustees member, Onikepo Oshodi; former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele; former State Chairman, Captain Tunji Shelle; ex-officio member, Nike Coker, and wife of Bode George, Roli.

He urged the candidates to be courageous and tell the truth about the current state of the country during their campaigns while assuring them of his support.

George berated the APC government, citing various economic indices that have worsened since they came into government, adding that the people are struggling, and there is no hope, job, or money for youths despite being graduates.

He said: “The APC has been saying that the PDP has collapsed. To say that the PDP is dead is the most irresponsible statement. How can the Iroko tree die? APC is a party made up of a congregation of strange people, hurriedly packaged and put together. What has this current government done to warrant any recognition? People are hungry, so why should anyone take them seriously.”

The PDP chieftain also expressed security concerns, referencing the recent Benue killings, and urged the government to take responsibility. He sent a direct message to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, cautioning him to be careful in the forthcoming election, while urging the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to resist temptations to do the bidding of the ruling party.

George, however, assured the candidates that the party would resolve its internal crisis before the end of the month.