Chief Asukewe Ikoawaji, a prominent member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has emphasized the importance of adhering to party guidelines for the party's presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his vice presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. According to Ikoawaji, no presidential candidate has the right to operate outside their party's guidelines, stressing that doing so can lead to electoral failure. He cited the example of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who allegedly relied on his campaign organization instead of the party, resulting in him losing three consecutive elections.
Ikoawaji, a former National Vice Chairman South-South of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), highlighted the significance of synergy between the party and its candidates. He noted that as a politician, one must abide by the rules of their party and that the party owns the candidate. Ikoawaji also clarified that Senator Seriaki Dickson is the National Leader of the NDC, while Senator Moses is the National Chairman. He stressed that ingratitude is a sin that is difficult for God to forgive, emphasizing the importance of loyalty to one's party.
The NDC chieftain expressed concerns about the formation of support groups, such as the OK Movement, which may compromise the party's work. He warned that if these groups operate outside the party's structure, it can lead to problems. Ikoawaji emphasized that as a presidential candidate, one cannot play politics by proxy and must abide by the party's rules. He also noted that separating party politics from personal relationships is crucial.
Ikoawaji discussed the issue of the presidential campaign council, stating that Peter Obi and his running mate have no right to constitute their own council without synergy with the party. He emphasized that the party and the presidential campaign must work together. Ikoawaji shared his experience as the Deputy National Chairman of ANPP, where he was in charge of three geopolitical zones and was not always informed about certain events, even in his own state, Rivers State.
The NDC chieftain warned that if the OK Movement refuses to fold into the NDC's official structure, it may lead to problems. He emphasized that candidates cannot run their elections outside their party and that the party's guidelines must be followed. Ikoawaji noted that the APC government has violated Nigeria and that the NDC is seen as an alternative. He stressed the importance of coming together and working together to win the election.
Ikoawaji highlighted two ways people play politics in Nigeria: those who prioritize personal gain and those who prioritize the country's progress. He noted that some individuals who worked with former President Buhari's campaign organization are now with Peter Obi or Senator Kwankwaso. Ikoawaji emphasized that as a politician, one must consider the future of Nigeria and the generation coming behind them.
Key points
- No presidential candidate has the right to operate outside their party's guidelines.
- Ikoawaji cites former President Muhammadu Buhari's experience as an example of the consequences of not operating within party guidelines.
- The NDC chieftain emphasizes the importance of synergy between the party and its candidates.
