By ONYEKACHI EZE

There are indications that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may extend its sale of nomination forms for the November 6 Anambra State governorship election. Technically, the sale of the forms ended yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, but a source at the PDP national secretariat hinted of possibility of extension. “We may likely extend the date, but I don’t know for how long, until the NWC (National Working Committee) meets.

A statement will be issued to that effect,” the source revealed. Fourteen aspirants met the March 31 deadline; among them are three women and eleven men. PDP may have been richer by N234 million, while N70 million accrued to the state chapter.

Each of the aspirants was made to pay N5 million compliant fee to the Anambra State PDP chapter. PDP National Organising Secretary (NOS), Col. Austin Akobundu (rtd) assured the party leadership will be fair and transparent in the conduct of the June 26 governorship primary. Akobundu, who spoke when one of the aspirants, Hon. Chris Azubogu returned his nomination and expression of interest forms to the party headquarters, said notwithstanding the high number of aspirants, “We are going to have one of the best primary elections in the country.”

He, however, called on the aspirants to be civil in their campaign and to assist the party conduct peaceful primary. Azubogu, who was accompanied by some PDP House of Representatives members, said he has the requisite experience and exposure needed to govern the state. Another aspirant, Godwin Ezeemo, who also returned his nomination form, said his aspiration is not a do-or-die affair. He stated that “Becoming the governor of Anambra State is not a life and death matter. I have good intentions to serve the good people of Anambra State. “I will happily take whatever result that comes from the primary as long as it is free and fair, and (will) support whoever emerges. All I am saying is that let there be fair playing ground.” (New Telegraph)

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