The Lagos State chapter of the Accord Party is gearing up for the Surulere I Federal Constituency by-election, expressing confidence in their candidate’s wide acceptance, which they believe will give them a competitive edge in the upcoming race. In an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, the Lagos State Chairman of the party, Mr. Dele Oladeji, revealed the party’s readiness and optimism towards the election.
Oladeji emphasized the party’s preparedness, stating, “We are prepared for the Surulere constituency I bye-election. We will be having our primary elections soon. Our aspirants are ready for the election and the contest. We are very positive of winning.”
Highlighting the potential advantage, Oladeji pointed out, “The acceptability of our candidate will give us the edge in this election coupled with the not-too-good performance of the ruling party at the center. We are very optimistic of winning this election if the poll will be free, peaceful and credible.”
Acknowledging the influence of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and specifically the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, in the constituency, Oladeji affirmed that the Accord Party is mobilizing and poised to deliver a surprise. However, he also underscored that the party’s prospects hinge on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) ability to conduct free and fair elections.
The by-election, scheduled for Feb. 3, 2024, comes in the wake of re-run and bye-elections planned in nine states, including the Surulere Federal Constituency I for the House of Representatives. The vacancy in the Surulere seat arose after President Bola Tinubu appointed Femi Gbajabiamila as his Chief of Staff, a position previously held by Gbajabiamila.
The Accord Party’s active preparations and strategic approach underscore the significance of the upcoming by-election, making it a closely watched political event in the region. As the electoral landscape takes shape, all eyes will be on how the party’s candidate’s acceptability resonates with the electorate and whether the INEC ensures the integrity of the electoral process.
