Presidential candidates from various opposition parties in the 2023 elections have appealed to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje. The appeal is aimed at securing appointments within the government of President Bola Tinubu.
Ambassador Felix Johnson Osakwe, the presidential candidate of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), spoke on behalf of the Forum of Concern Presidential Candidates. He emphasized their commitment to peace and called for their inclusion in President Tinubu’s administration. The event took place in Abuja, where several presidential candidates were present, representing parties such as the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Action Democratic Party (ADP), National Rescue Movement (NRM), and Action Peoples Party (APP).
Addressing the gathering, Osakwe stated, “We are here, sir, not only to see Mr. President; number one is to be identified with you and to thank God for your appointment; number two, we see you as a father, sir, who has been a Commander-in-Chief of a state, and here you are today to be the pilot that will lead the presidential candidate, especially those who are ready and those who love this country and the interest of this country first before politics, before parties.”
The presidential candidates expressed their dedication to the growth and development of Nigeria, emphasizing their decision not to contest Tinubu’s victory in court. They asserted that their united front was a testament to their commitment to the nation and their understanding of the importance of a united government.
In response, Abdullahi Ganduje acknowledged their perspectives and assured them that he would convey their views and requests to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Ganduje commended the candidates for their loyalty to their respective parties and remarked, “What I am seeing is one political aspirant who became a presidential candidate by accident. He became a presidential candidate by hijacking another party because he was partyless.”
