We will adhere strictly to democracy, Ganduje assures APC members

The newly appointed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje has assured members of the party that his leadership will embrace internal democracy, with a deliberate policy to engage in wider consultations to achieve a functional party.

Ganduje gave the assurance while reading his acceptance speech at the 12th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, on Thursday in Abuja.

The former Kano governor said he is committed to reforming the party to align with the current political style.

He said, “Our main focus will be promoting party unity and defending and increasing the number of executive and legislative seats we currently hold.

“Under my watch, internal democracy will be strictly adhered to with a deliberate policy to engage in wider consultations and making party functional throughout the year.

“More reforms will be carried out in the party in alignment with the current political landscape

“We all agreed that we must unite our members to achieve support for our government to respond adequately, urgently and assertively to the challenges that Nigerians confront on a daily basis.

“The challenges include unemployment, poverty, insecurity, social cohesion and the rising cost of living.

“Our party must remain rooted among the people, must demonstrate a willingness to serve and make sacrifices, and must be willing to acknowledge and address our weaknesses.

“It’s a huge privilege and an honour and a great responsibility to take on this job and I will do it with everything I have to the best of my ability for my party and my country.

“We will ensure a level playing field for all party members that want to contest elections under the party’s platform. Our primary elections would be free, transparent and fair”.

Speaking on the forthcoming elections in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa states, Ganduje called for cooperation to secure the party’s victory.

“Let me also use this opportunity to call on members of our party and all the people of Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa states to close ranks and ensure that the APC wins in the forthcoming governorship elections.

“While accepting this responsibility, I count on your support to help me deliver it the best way I can”, he said.