A former Kaduna lawmaker, Datti Ahmed, announced on Tuesday his withdrawal from the race for the governorship of Kaduna state.
Mr. Ahmed, in a letter dated May 24 sent to the chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, complained that the party’s primaries have been rigged.
“Credible first-hand reports have apparently shown that the anticipated changes to our policy are still holding and the lessons are yet to be learned, as the ongoing primaries demonstrate, no need to go into detail.
“These are inconsistent with my purpose of being in politics.
Therefore, I hereby respectfully withdraw from the 2023 Kaduna State Governorate contest under our great party, the PDP. I, however, remain loyal and supportive.
“I pray for the day when we get our politics right for the sake of Nigeria,” Ahmed said.
Meanwhile, another applicant, Shehu Sanihe said he is going ahead with his bid to emerge as the party’s gubernatorial candidate.
Sani, a former senator, also promised that he would not bribe delegates to vote for him.
“No one should pay any delegate on my behalf,” he said.
“I don’t believe in the political ritual of paying to be elected. That is inconsistent with my ideological and moral beliefs.
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“I welcome the votes of the delegates who will vote for me based on the principles I stand for and my agenda for the good people of Kaduna State.
“We cannot build and develop our country and free our people from the captivity of slavery through a corrupt political process and a system that we have unscrupulously embraced.
“An opposition party must be a reliable alternative and an example of transparency, justice and fairness.
“Those who wait for me or ask me for millions to vote for me should not waste time. And be unaware of any of my coordinators who might try to make false promises against my charge.
“I believe in winning or losing with dignity,” Mr. Sani posted on his Facebook.
The PDP gubernatorial primary is held on Wednesday.
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