2023: Wike, Atiku, Ortom Set To Miss Atiku Campaign Launch

Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, his Oyo and Benue states counterparts – Seyi Makinde and Samuel Ortom – are to boycott the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential campaign launch today in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, it was learned yesterday.

The three aggrieved governors had similarly boycotted the inauguration of the campaign council at the Conference Centre, Abuja on September 28 along with their two colleagues – Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu) and Okezie Ikepeazu (Abia).

Also yesterday, Ortom said he would not succumb to intimidation and blackmail by supporters of PDP National Chairman Senator Iyorchia Ayu, who hails from Benue State.

He maintained that since the chairman had promised to resign if a northerner emerged, he should fulfill his promise.

A protracted post-presidential primary had hit the main opposition party, following Ayu’s refusal to resign after Atiku Abubakar emerged as the candidate.

READ ALSO: 2023 Presidency: You’re Like A Bus Conductor Applying For The Post Of A Driver – Keyamo Drags Atiku

Both Atiku and Ayu have maintained that resignation by Ayu should follow constitutional guidelines.

But, the governors have insisted that Ayu should quit paving the way for a Southerner in the spirit of equity, justice, and fairness.

Atiku, Ayu, and the campaign Director-General, Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, are from the North.

READ ALSO: Stop Wooing Wike; Rivers APC Warns Tinubu

Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara was appointed as Ayu’s replacement, in a move to reflect a semblance of balancing in power in the party.

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