Engr Adedeji Doherty the outgoing Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party in Lagos State has for the umpteenth time stated that he would not be re-contesting for the post of the State Chairman.
He made this known again to Journalists who beseiged his office amidst rumours that his early statement and stance was a mere “smokescreen.”
He reiterated that his word is usually his bond and that not contesting for the position of State Chairman is a foregone conclusion.
He stated that he had vowed not to re-contest as a sacrifice he had to make for peace, unity, progress and ultimately as his show of unflinching love for the party, as against show of self aggrandizement.
He however stated that, he hopes and prays that the forthcoming State Congress would be an all inclusive one, that would have positions for Youths, Non-indigenes and especially the 35% inclusion of women in the scheme of things as enshrined in the party constitution.
He said “everyone should be given an opportunity to hold positions in the party.”
He opined that going forward, the coming Congress would make or mar the People’s Democratic Party in Lagos State.
Engr Doherty reiterated the importance of the Congress, stating that, during his tenure, he enjoyed the support of majority of the Local Government Chairmen, because he was voted for and brought in through a state Congress.
He however promised that, there would be Congresses at every level of the party in the state, hence all intending aspirants should go all out to commence necessary campaigns.
Engr Doherty stated that it has come to his knowledge that, intending aspirants are not campaigning, for the fear of or belief in the usual “imposition” or “sharing formula” style of some leaders and elders.
He advised that the National body of the party has directed that, on no account should there be any form of “imposition” or “sharing formula” in the state.
He in turn corroborated the National body, saying that undue impositions would not be allowed in the state.
He however stated that, “it is only in a situation, where all concerned, aspirants inclusive have all agreed on a consensus.
He advised, that all intending aspirants should endeavor to pick up their nomination forms from Abuja with all due payments made.
Engr Doherty further advised that photocopies of duly completed forms should be forwarded to the office of the Acting State Secretary at the Party Secretariat.
He consequently wished all aspirants well, as he implored all and sundry to make the interest of the party uppermost in their minds going forward.