As the race to pick the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship ticket in Ekiti state gathers momentum, President Goodluck Jonathan has promised to be neutral.
Of late, there has been rumour making the round that the President has anointed a particular candidate to fly the party’s flag in the governorship election holding later in the year.
In his bid to demonstrate his neutrality, President Jonathan has met with all the aspirants, assuring them that he would ensure that the primaries are hitch-free.
The closed door meeting was attended by the Minister of Police Affairs, Navy-Captain Caleb Olubolade (rtd.); former governor of the state, Ayo Fayose, Gbenga Aluko, Bode Olowoporoku, Dayo Adeyeye, Bisi Omoyeni, Abiodun Aluko, Yinka Akerele and Femi Bamisile.
Confirming this to State House correspondents on Sunday was the Minister of Police Affairs, Olubolade, who also commended the President for his stand.
“What the President said was that he has not endorsed anybody that means every aspirant can become the governor. That is good for democracy.
“What we need to do is to take it in good faith and learn the lesson he has offered and use it not to make the mistake of the past so that election will be free and fair under a peaceful atmosphere.
“This is what is important for all of us. Definitely, a governor will emerge and I think the President has set the pace to ensure that violence does not take place with that kind of a meeting. All the aspirants embraced it and they were happy. That is leadership and we commend Mr. President for that.
“It is usual that when election is approaching, people are agitated, they are troubled. Everybody wants to outdo the other person. It is a natural thing, so it is not put of place.
“But as soon as we get closer, things will start to take shape. It is in our interest that we conduct a free and fair election. It is in our interest that we recognize each other’s capability. When a winner emerges, we should all take it in good faith,” he enjoined.
