Ndudi Elumelu, the minority leader in the House of Representatives, has urged the Peoples Democratic Party’s Deputy National Chairman (South), Amb. Taofeek Arapaja, to take immediate steps to reunite party members, particularly in the South West, in order to reposition the party to take power in 2023.
On Wednesday, Elumelu made the request at a special inauguration dinner held in Arapaja’s honor in Abuja.
Prior to the governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti, the Minority Leader expressly requested Arapaja to use his authority to enhance inclusion in the South-West and reconcile dissatisfied members.
“By 2023, we want to see PDP take over the Southwest,” the federal politician added. How are we going to do that? It is up to you (Arapaja) to take immediate action to bring the Southern PDP together.
“It’s a terrific task, and it’ll be challenging, but God, who put you in this position, knows you have what it takes to succeed.
“Whenever you need us, we’ll be there to ensure that Southern Nigeria achieves the unity that is required under your leadership.”
Arapaja was also instructed by the minority leader to make sure that popular candidates who are actually adored by the people of the states run for the state elections.
For the PDP to win in 2023, such measures must be expanded to all Southern state chapters of the party as well as across the country, he urged. READ ALSO: Ayu Urges PDP Women, Others To Push For Higher Elective Positions
In his remarks, Arapaja promised the crowd that the new PDP administration would be selfless and meticulous in selecting flag-bearers who could win all elections, including those in Osun and Ekiti States in 2022 and the general elections in 2023.
“We own the power at the center,” he stated. Nigerians regard us as credible rivals to the ruling All Progressives Congress. We’ve made a good start on our way to the villa, and I implore each of us to be even more committed to the cause of reclaiming Nigeria for the benefit of Nigerians. This is a mission worthy of our collective commitment.
He stated that his leadership in Southern Nigeria would always adhere to a tripod policy in order to sustain the party’s stability and progress.
“The most essential thing to me is winning in our elections,” Arapaja continued, “not just being there as a figurehead officer.”
To that aim, I will use all of my weapons at my disposal to justify the trust placed in me.”
Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, the convener of the New Nigeria Group, who also spoke at the occasion, praised Arapaja as a capable guy who would work for the party’s success.
