Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, the governor of Jigawa State, and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, have declared their intention to run for president under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
The governor obtained the nomination and the expression of interest forms at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.
Badaru had been initially linked to the senatorial race ahead of the 2023 general elections, but reportedly changed his decision following a stakeholders’ meeting of the ruling APC at the Government House on Tuesday night.
Though it was not immediately known why he changed his ambition, the governor was said to have told the gathering that he was pressurized to contest for the presidential seat by his colleagues.
Habibu Nuhu Kila, the special adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Relations, who confirmed the development said, “It is true that Governor Badaru has travelled to Abuja to secure nomination form for the 2023 presidential election.”
He said he was capable, adding that if given the chance to succeed Buhari, he would continue with the president’s “positive programmes and policies.”
Meanwhile, Akpabio also promised not to allow Nigeria to sink, noting that he would bring restoration, dignity, respect, and succour to Nigerians.
Speaking on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, to a mammoth crowd during his declaration at Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, the former Akwa Ibom State Governor stated that he would restore the days of glory experienced in Akwa Ibom to the country.
Akpabio said as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, 88 road projects which would have been abandoned, but for the fear of forensic audit initiated by the commission, were completed by contractors.
He said his wealth of experience as governor and as a minister qualified him for president.
“You have heard a lot of declarations but this one is uncommon. It is not only a message of hope, positive continuity and of the Egyptians you see today, it is a message of the restoration of your dignity, and respect in the ECOWAS region and beyond.
“I am determined not to let our nation sink but drink from the deep well of experiences I have from service.
“I seek your nomination to become your President come 2023. I thank the president for the opportunity given me to make great advances beyond Akwa Ibom State. The president is fighting corruption the way I like corruption to be fought.”
