We will build consensus to defeat APC in 2023 — New PDP Chairman, Ayu

The newly elected national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Sen. Iyorchia Ayu, has said he will build consensus in order to unite the party and defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023.

Ayu, who spoke during an appreciation meeting with PDP delegates from his home state of Benue on Sunday in Abuja, said he would work hard to unite the party to enable it to reclaim presidential power in 2023.

But the All Progressives Congress (APC) said it is impossible for the PDP to defeat it in 2023.

Ayu noted that because consensus produced him without rancour, it was a worthy vehicle to adopt for even the presidential slot if the party agreed on it.

 “There is so much work to be done. As we did it in 1998, we will do it again,” he said. 

The new party chairman told his critics not to expect him to abandon his core principles in life which he said is standing on the side of truth always irrespective of who is impacted.

He also advised those who have joined politics for pecuniary gains to consider business instead as politics is purely for service to the country.

He commended all stakeholders who played key roles for his emergence as the PDP helmsman, adding that his administration would focus on women and youths because they hold the keys to success at the polls.

Ayu also debunked claims that Sen. David Mark contested for the national chairmanship, saying Sen. Mark supported him throughout the process that led to his emergence as PDP national chairman.

Similarly, Governor Samuel Ortom said at the meeting that consensus arrangement would be done for the emergence of the 2023 governorship candidate in Benue State after robust consultations with relevant stakeholders.

When contacted for comments, APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Yekini Nabena said,” It is not possible. It is all about numbers. Where will they have the numbers from?

“More of their governors are going to join the APC. So that is his personal opinion; but they should remember that the APC too is not asleep.”    

(Daily Trust: Excluding headline)