The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State on Tuesday inaugurated a 13-member screening committee for its forthcoming state executive elective congress.

The inauguration, witnessed by PDP elders and leaders in the state, including local government party executives, took place in Ikeja.

Members of the committee are Remi Akitoye (chairman), Ahisu Dansu (secretary), Onikepo Oshodi, Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, Aduke Maina, Niran Adeniji, and John Agbaje.

Others are Rasaq Fakunle, Olorunkemi Babs, Sikiru Yusuf, Olatunji Hassan, Ogunbambi Lai, and Olajumoke Akinola.

Addressing the leaders before the inauguration, Bode George, a former PDP deputy national chairman, said the inauguration was to prepare the ground ahead of the forthcoming congresses at the ward, local, and state levels.

According to him, the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) has expressed the party’s readiness to conduct congresses at the ward, local, and state levels before the party’s convention, slated for November in Ibadan, Oyo State.

“This is PDP Lagos State’s internal organisation to make sure we are stable before the national body starts its job. This is just like a mock examination to put our house in order.

“Once the mock examination is fine, we are good to move and pass the real examination. We are bringing civility, commitment, loyalty, and dedication back to the party.

“We decided at the NEC Meeting that the new PDP will be people-focused. We have decided to refocus our party and reorganise our party to be able to give a good fight in 2027,” Mr George said.

According to him, the inauguration is one of the steps being taken to strengthen the party and position it for greatness.

Mr George said the next leadership of the party must be seen to be committed to the vision and ideology of PDP.

“We want to build a party that will put the people first, a party that will eliminate discrimination but be fair for all. We must sell this message to the people of Nigeria,” he added.

Urging political office leaders to shun greed and corruption, Mr George said the focus of governance must be on the people.

He urged President Bola Tinubu to set machinery in motion to rework the current Nigerian constitution to engender genuine federalism and to reset the country.

Mr George also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to allow seamless electronic transmission of election results from polling units to strengthen the electoral system.

Mr George urged the committee to assess aspirants’ party membership, curriculum vitae, positions applied for, and contributions to the party.

Speaking on behalf of other committee members, Mr Akitoye pledged to ensure that only credible leaders emerge in the forthcoming congresses at all levels.

(NAN)