We must all work together to ensure that the wishes of the people are respected and that the outcome of the elections reflects the collective decision of the electorate
By Moses Okorie
The Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections, Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has promised that an NDC-led Federal Government under the presidential ticket of Mr. Peter Obi and himself will promote inclusive governance and prioritise the interests of all Nigerians.
Kwankwaso gave the assurance while addressing party leaders, stakeholders and supporters at a colourful reception organised in his honour at Toru-Orua, the country home of the NDC National Leader and Bayelsa West Senatorial Candidate, Sen. Henry Seriake Dickson.
In a statement signed by Gabriel Ukuta, Coordinator of Ofurumapepe Media, Kwankwaso said the proposed NDC government would ensure that every Nigerian had a stake in governance, irrespective of political, ethnic, religious or social background.
The former Kano State Governor and Minister of Defence said Nigeria needed leadership that would involve citizens in the formulation and implementation of policies and programmes.
He described the NDC as a credible political alternative capable of providing the leadership required to address the country’s challenges.
“Nigerians deserve a government that will listen to them, accommodate their interests and ensure that no section of the country is left behind. An NDC-led Federal Government will be an all-inclusive government that will carry everybody along in its policies and programmes,” he said.
Kwankwaso, a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, criticised the APC-led Federal Government over what he described as widespread hunger, economic hardship and insecurity.
He urged Nigerians to use the 2027 general elections to vote out the ruling party, calling for massive support for the NDC.
He also cautioned against alleged attempts by anti-democratic elements to manipulate the forthcoming elections, urging citizens to remain vigilant and protect their votes.
“Voting is not enough; Nigerians must also take responsibility for protecting their votes. We must all work together to ensure that the wishes of the people are respected and that the outcome of the elections reflects the collective decision of the electorate,” he said.
Kwankwaso thanked Dickson, members of the party’s National Working Committee, National Campaign Council, candidates and supporters for the reception.
In his remarks, Dickson criticised the APC-led Federal and Bayelsa State Governments over what he described as growing hardship, hunger, insecurity, victimisation and intimidation in the state.
The former Bayelsa governor expressed confidence in the Obi-Kwankwaso presidential ticket, describing the candidates as experienced and trustworthy leaders capable of restoring good governance and addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
He urged Bayelsans to intensify grassroots mobilisation and support all NDC candidates contesting the 2027 elections, from the presidential to the State House of Assembly contests.
Dickson further described the NDC as an inclusive political platform open to all Nigerians, regardless of their backgrounds or previous political affiliations.
A major highlight of the reception was Kwankwaso’s participation in the traditional Ijaw war boat display, known as Ama-Aru, alongside Dickson and other party leaders.
The colourful cultural procession took place along the Toru-Orua axis of River Forcados, showcasing the cultural heritage of the Ijaw people.
The event, led by NDC National Chairman, Sen. Moses Cleopas, also featured the presentation of party flags to candidates contesting National Assembly and Bayelsa State House of Assembly seats.
The reception attracted party leaders, political stakeholders, candidates and supporters from different parts of Bayelsa State, demonstrating the party’s mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections.