By Mohammed Isa
The chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno state, Ali Bukar Dalori, has commended Governor Kashim Shettima for creating an atmosphere of democratic freedom in which aspirants under the APC were given their rights to obtain forms for the governorship and other seats as against previous practices of dictatorship where party members were denied freedom to aspire for positions. In a statement emailed to journalists on Tuesday, the chairman said it was the first time since 1999 that aspirants under a ruling party in the state where given such freedom.
He said the governor resisted offers to immediately anoint a successor, opting for an open and liberal democratic process where persons with aspiration were not only allowed but even encouraged to obtain forms for expression of interest.
He said the APC in Borno state is happy with its growing number of aspirants, especially for the governorship position because the development has charged the political atmosphere in favour of the APC and in positive and peaceful manner.
Dalori said while all aspirants have rights to engage themselves in consultations and lawful negotiations which are common with democracies, the APC in the state would continue its ongoing extensive consultation with all segments of people to gather views relating to the future of the state.
He assured all APC members that there is no cause for alarm on the number of aspirants, adding that members should enjoy a moment of the party’s growth in strong democratic culture which would make it more attractive to waiting voters.
He called on the members to pray for the party to produce the best candidates at all levels who would work to sustain, preserve and accelerate the ongoing efforts towards the stability of the state.
