by Azubuike Azikiwe

As the year draws to a close, and the 2015 elections become the subject matter among Nigeria’s political circles and beyond, politicians have begun to engage in rabble rousing to influence public perception and leaning.

On Tuesday, 23 September, during the formal reception of Kogi PDP decampees into the party at the Lokoja Township Stadium, Kogi State, National Chairman of the APC, John Odigie-Oyegun and former Military Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari, both had some words to say about the upcoming elections and the ruling party, People’s Democratic Party, PDP.

Buhari predicted that the general elections of 2015 would be very tough, especially because of All Progressives Congress’ determination to take over the government from the PDP.

He urged Nigerians to hold firmly to their voters card, whila also promising improved infrastructure, water, electricity and improved education system for Nigerians, under the APC.

He said, “The next five months will be very tough, because we want to take over the government, from councillorship to presidency. Next election is going to be different and next year is going to be tough because APC is ready for change in Nigeria. We will stop corruption; no more will anybody put government money into private pockets.”

Meanwhile, Oyegun had some harsh words for the ruling party, saying they are finished. He also listed a number of reasons why the ruling party should not be re-elected in 2015.

He said, “APC is growing so fast. Many of you know I have been here three times in the past and I tell you this is the greatest crowd I have seen. The PDP is finished anyway. Have we forgotten the N20 billion? Have we forgotten the N225 million armoured tank? Can we forget the $9.6 million? Can we forget Boko Haram? And, look at it here in Kogi State, look at the very stadium we are standing, where the government cannot fix its roofs.”

Speaking further, Oyegun echoed Buhari’s statement, saying that the APC is the only party with the vision to change Nigeria for better.
“I want to tell you that as soon as APC comes into power, we will change all these for the better. Teachers are not paid, workers are not paid and it’s a challenge for you to ensure that they do not rise again. It is not an easy job, but we shall not make the mistake we made in the past. I want to assure you that APC is the only party with vision, dependable and willing to do the needful,” he added.

Several prominent members of the party were in attendance at the event, including former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso; APC Deputy National Chairman, Senator Lawan Shuaibu; National Deputy Chairman, South West, Engr. Segun Oni; former governor of Kogi State, Prince Abubakar Audu; former Minister of State for Petroleum, Shuaib Abdullahi; APC National Treasurer, Bala Muhammed and National Organizing Secretary, Senator Osita Izuanaso, amongst others.

Kolapo Olapoju