Nine aspirants vying for chairmanship position have been cleared by the Screening Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national elective convention holding today in Abuja.
Addressing journalists on Friday at the party’s national secretariat, Chairman of the screening committee, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu lauded the conduct of the chairmanship hopeful, stating that with their clearance, the party was hopeful of a credible convention devoid of rancour.
Candidates cleared to test their popularity for the number one PDP seat included Prince Uche Secondus, Professors Tunde Adeniran, Taoheed Adedoja, Chief Olabode George, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Chief Jimi Agbaje and Aderemi Olusegun.
In his brief remarks, Chairman of the Convention Planning Committee and Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa pledged the readiness of his committee to conduct a credible and transparent convention.
While lauding the display of maturity so far exhibited by the aspirants, Okowa assured Nigerians that adequate steps have been taken to secure the Eagles Square, venue of the convention.
“We are very much aware of the security alert about Abuja.
The security committee is working very closely with the security agencies to ensure a smooth convention,” said Okowa who added that security sub-committee is “Working very closely with the police and relevant security agencies,” to ensure a smooth exercise.
He further added that only properly accredited journalists would be allowed entrance to the convention venue.
On his part, Chairman, Post-Convention Planning Committee and Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson tasked all aspirants to demonstrate the spirit of sportsmanship before, during and after the contest, adding that only one of them is fated to win the election.
He thanked Okowa for his work rate describing him and the convention planning committee as “People we have confidence in.”
Governor Dickson also urged the aspirants to be at liberty to approach his committee to seek clarification on any issue relating to convention.
