In what seems a confirmation of an alleged unwritten understanding between Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the just-concluded gubernatorial election in Anambra State, the state governor, Peter Obi, at the weekend said that his party would not field a candidate against President Goodluck Jonathan if he decides to stand for re-election in 2015.
Obi disclosed this in his first official statement after the supplementary election in Awka, while speaking with newsmen on the outcome of the gubernatorial election in the state, which was won by APGA’s candidate, Willie Obiano,
According to him, the decision of APGA not to field a presidential candidate against Jonathan in 2015 was sequel to his (Jonathan) neutral role in the Anambra State gubernatorial election.
Obi, who addressed the news conference alongside Obiano; the National Chairman of APGA, Sir Victor Umeh and other chieftains of the APGA, said: “I want to first of all express our gratitude to God Almighty for giving us this victory and also thank President Goodluck Jonathan for his commitment in promoting democracy in the country.
“It is not easy to see a president whose party is contesting an election with opposition incumbent party, staying neutral without using federal might to manoeuvre things.
“By this singular act, President Jonathan has, once again, demonstrated that he is indeed a true democrat and ardent believer in the wish of the people.”
The governor in addition, praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the media and security agencies for their roles in the smooth conduct of the gubernatorial election.
The development has however fuelled further speculations about PDP’s controversial role in the election in which its candidate Tony Nwoye came second as it was later revealed that the alleged pact with APGA was to the effect that after winning the November 16 governorship election, Obi’s supporters in APGA would be handed over the PDP structure in the state so as to begin the process of firming up an effective support base for the President’s second term ambition.
The PDP has been criticised for openly praising the conduct of Anambra governorship election by INEC even when its candidate rejected the poll, which was later declared inconclusive by the election umpire because of what it called wanton irregularities.
Source: Daily Newswatch
