The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Lagos State has announced plans to adopt consensus candidates for chairmanship and councillorship positions in the upcoming local government elections scheduled for July 12.
The party has slated its primaries for Saturday, May 17, to take place across all local government secretariats in the state.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, Hakeem Olalemi, PDP Vice Chairman, Central, said the selection process would be based on agreements reached among stakeholders in each council area.
Olalemi expressed confidence in the PDP’s chances in the forthcoming elections.
“Our great party, the PDP, will conduct its primaries for the upcoming local government elections in Lagos at various party secretariats on May 17.
“We strongly believe our chances are bright in the next local government election. We are optimistic and hope the process will be free and fair,” he said.
While acknowledging the influence of the ruling party over the state electoral commission, Olalemi affirmed the PDP’s preparedness to compete.
“We know the ruling party has significant control over the state electoral body, but we are ready to go head-to-head with the APC. By God’s grace, we will emerge victorious. We are fully prepared physically, morally, and in every other way,” he stated.
Also speaking, Lagos PDP Chairman, Phillips Aivoji, voiced optimism about the party’s prospects in the election.
“We are in this race to win. We will continue to mobilize the people to support and vote for the PDP.
“I believe we have a strong chance in several areas, while in others, we are prepared to battle it out,” he said.
Aivoji added that Lagos residents stand to benefit significantly under PDP leadership.
“With the PDP, Lagosians can expect good governance, purposeful leadership, and people centered administration. The citizens will be our top priority if we are elected,” he said.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) held its primary elections last Saturday to select candidates for the July LG polls.