Sa’idu Umar, former Secretary to the Sokoto State Government, has clinched the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship ticket to contest the 2023 general elections.

This development followed the withdrawal of four other aspirants and an affirmation vote conducted by 695 out of 755 delegates on Wednesday in Sokoto.

The aspirants, who withdrew from the race, included Deputy Governor Munir Dan’iya and Bello Goronyo, the PDP chairman in Sokoto. Others are ex- Deputy Governor Mukhtari Shagari and former commissioner for environment Sagir Bafarawa.

The affirmation was conducted under the supervision of the committee from the PDP national headquarters chaired by Tom Zakari and INEC officials as observers.

Announcing the outcome of the affirmation, Mr Zakari said the winner scored 695 votes and the remaining were voided.

“I, therefore, declare Alhaji Sa’idu Umar as the winner and flag bearer of the Sokoto PDP governorship position for the coming 2023 election,” he said.

Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto commended the aspirants for their understanding and commitment to the unity of the party.

“Your sacrifices for the unity of our great party is a pointer that will lead to our success throughout the 2023 general elections. I believe doing so will give room for the best opportunity of ensuring continuity in the task ahead of us,” said Mr Tambuwal.

The Sokoto governor further disclosed that the consensus arrangement had adopted one of the withdrawn aspirants, Sagir Bafarawa for the office of deputy governor position, while his incumbent Deputy Dan’iya will be replaced to contest the Sokoto North senatorial seat.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Umar assured that he would work in collaboration with all members of the party for the best of the state.

“I will continue to work hard for the success of PDP throughout the 2023 general elections and continue to remain loyal to all party’s decisions,” stated Mr Umar. “More so, with the current development I want to assure you all that we will continue to work together in the direction and in compliance with the present administration for the best of our state.”

The situation triggered widespread reaction from the PDP loyalists at the venue of the exercise as groups chanted different songs, opposing the decision and booed Mr Tambuwal. 

(NAN)