2023 poll: I will not influence election for you, Buhari tells All Progressives Congress Governors

The Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has declared that, he would not influence or interfere in the forthcoming elections in favour of the Governors of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the country.

Penpushing reports that, he made this clear when he received members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) led by Chairman and Governor of Kebbi State, Abubakar Bagudu, at the State House,in Abuja

The President noted that non-interference in elections gives credence to the political process, ensures participation and inclusiveness, and shows that the governing party respects the electorate, assuring Nigerians that the ruling party will continue to bequeath strong political institutions that reflect their choices, through non-interference in elections.

Penpushing further reports that, Buhari cited outcome of polls in Ekiti, Anambra and Osun states as indicators, stressing that his administration will continue to respect Nigerians by ensuring that their votes count and the people’s voice matters in choosing political leaders at different levels.

“I want Nigerians to know that we respect them, and for us to show that we will allow them to vote who they want. We all witnessed what happened in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun States. What happened in those states gives me a lot of hope that we are succeeding.’’

Penpushing also reports that, Buhari emphasized that the government will also ensure that Nigerians don’t get intimidated, or humiliated by those in positions, or the more privileged in the forthcoming 2023 general elections.

“We will not allow anyone to use personal resources or their influence to intimidate other Nigerians. We will not allow intimidations materially, morally or physically. This is the kind of leadership that can emerge and consolidate our nation. In six months, Nigerians will appreciate the government of APC that we are sincere and we respect them,’’ he added.

Penpushing reports that, the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum ( PGF) thanked the President for his leadership, guided by wisdom and foresight, affirming that the Nigerian economy had been growing, in spite of challenges.

‘We want to congratulate you on the positive trajectory of the economy, with the 3.5 per cent growth in the second quarter, up from 3.1 per cent of the first quarter of this year. Infrastructure projects are ongoing in parts of the country, and the social intervention programme is expanding’, Bagudu stated.

Penpushing further reports that  the forum said the growth trajectory had defied initial predictions of some multilateral institutions, affirming that the World Bank and others had acknowledged the resilience of the economy, and reviewed their positions.

‘Your Excellency, as we speak, there is drought in Europe and China. The Ukraine-Russia war is taking a toll on economies. In the UK, there is rationing of electricity and energy shortages in China’,Bagudu added.

‘While other countries are banning food export, we are preparing for more production, in spite of floods in places like Jigawa State. We note your instruction for the release of 40,000 tonnes of grains. We also note efforts on improving security and measures to cut oil theft,’’ he said.

Penpushing also reports that Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF)  informed  the president that some All Progressives Congress(APC) Governors were contesting elections for second term in 2023 with impressive records in their first term.

‘We note the pronouncement of ASUU. We recall the appeal of the President to ASUU while we were visiting Daura that they should consider the future of students. We will not dwell on that now. We are ready to accept any negotiations for resolution’,  Bagudu added.

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