A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in Edo State, Barrister Kenneth Imasuangbon, has backed the aspiration of former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, for the ticket of the party in the 2023 presidential election.
Some chieftains of the PDP had recently called on Atiku to support younger aspirants from the Southern part of the country.
But yesterday Imasuangbon popularly known as the ‘Riceman’ said Atiku is PDP’s best choice to defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress(APC) if the party is desirous of winning.
Imasuangbon, in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City, urged PDP members to market their aspirants instead of presenting Atiku in bad light.
The former Edo governorship aspirant said Atiku has the prerequisite experience, contacts across the country and has impacted many lives through his many philanthropic works.
He cautioned PDP governors and other party chieftains to call their supporters to order and refrain them from casting aspersion on Atiku.
He argued that those using the issue of age and zoning against the former Vice President are doing that for selfish and parochial reasons.
According to Imasuangbon, “What I want PDP members to understand and focus on is winning the election. We cannot field candidates Nigerians do not know and trust.
“How on earth can someone argue that Atiku should not be given our party’s ticket on account of his age? Age is not a curse but a blessing.
“For example, it is on record that the founding father and former President of Singapore, late Lee Kuan Yew, became President at a very old age and he led his country into economic prosperity. Same with former President Ronald Reagan of the United States. So what are they talking about?
“Again, If we are talking about fairness, equity and justice, power should remain in the north. He is the most qualified in the north and don’t forget that the North East has not produced President.
“Even if you leave the presidency open he is the most qualified and his presidency will usher in prosperity for the country.
“From 1999, the South have done fourteen years while the North will have eleven years by the time Buhari completes his tenure next year. There is a four years deficit for the north to balance up.
“PDP where I belong, the north has not finished its tenure. Obasanjo did 8 years, Yar’ Adua did two years and Jonathan did six years. In fairness they should take it to the north.
“Atiku is well known across the country. He is the best option to defeat the APC. I want to appeal to PDP governors and other members to support him.”
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