LG polls: Lagos PDP chair absent as Bode George unveils candidates, flags off campaign
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State has unveiled its candidates for the July 12 Local Government elections, with the party’s Chairman, Philip Aivoji, conspicuously absent.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony on Wednesday in Lagos State, former Deputy National Chairman, Bode George, dismissed claims that the party is dead, saying 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 Southwest Legal Adviser, Dr. Amos Fawole; Board of Trustees Member, Chief Mrs. Onikepo Oshodi; former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele; former State Chairman, Lagos, Captain Tunji Shelle; Ex-Officio Member, Nike Coker; and Roli Bode George, wife of Chief Bode George.
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 criticised 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 conceive that PDP is dead is the most irresponsible statement. How can the iroko tree die? APC is a party made up of the congregation of strange people, hurriedly packaged and put together. What has this current government done to warrant any recognition? The people are hungry, so why should anyone take them seriously?”
The PDP chieftain also expressed concern about security, 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 assured the candidates that the party would resolve its internal crisis before the end of the month.
