Atiku Urges Residents of Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa to Vote for PDP Candidates in November 11 Gubernatorial Polls

In the lead-up to the gubernatorial elections slated for November 11 in Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa states, Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, has called upon the residents of these states to rally behind PDP’s governorship candidates. The former Vice President of Nigeria emphasized the need for the electorate to exercise their voting rights in order to counter anti-democratic influences and create a more democratic and prosperous future.

Atiku Abubakar stressed that these elections are not about political godfathers but rather about the people’s welfare and the future of their respective states. In Kogi State, Dino Melaye is the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate, while Governor Douye Diri is representing the party in Bayelsa State, and Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu is the flagbearer in Imo State.

Despite the concerns over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) commitment to transparency following the last general elections, Atiku encouraged citizens not to lose faith in Nigeria’s democracy. He quoted former U.S. President James Monroe, stating, “the best form of government is that which is most likely to prevent the greatest sum of evil.”

Atiku’s statement read, “Our objective of defeating anti-democratic elements in our polity cannot be successful if we refuse to go out en masse to cast our ballot on Election Day. That is why I am appealing to the good people of Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states to come out in large numbers this Saturday to vote for the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party in those respective elections.”

He went on to highlight the achievements and capabilities of the PDP candidates, noting Governor Douye Diri’s infrastructural and social development efforts in Bayelsa, Senator Dino Melaye’s commitment to the people in Kogi, and Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu’s dedication to his constituents in Imo.

Atiku also drew a sharp contrast with the All Progressives Congress (APC) by pointing out that the APC candidates in these states are seen as proxies for political godfathers. He urged voters to prioritize the interests of the common people and choose PDP over APC, emphasizing that these elections are fundamentally about the welfare of the people and the triumph of democracy.

As the November 11 gubernatorial polls approach, Atiku Abubakar’s call for active participation in the electoral process serves as a reminder of the importance of the citizens’ role in shaping the future of their states and Nigeria as a whole.