TheCable

Ndi Oganiru Enugu, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has asked the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Enugu governor, to ensure that the forthcoming primaries in the state are peaceful.

The group made its position known in a statement issued on Saturday by Jude Asogwa Chinedu, its president.

According to the group, political activities in the state are building up, and as such, there is a need to ensure that the situation doesn’t degenerate into chaos.

“We are keenly following the unfolding events leading up to the 2023 election in Enugu State, including the rising political temperature and the surging interests of illustrious sons of Enugu to lead our state,” the statement reads.

“We appeal to our grand patron, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, to
ensure that peace will not elude Enugu State at this sensitive period.

“As a people, we must know that after election, we will still live together as one people.

“That being the case, Ndi Oganiru Enugu calls on the national and state leadership of the PDP to provide a level playing field for all contestants to ensure that the most popular aspirants emerge as the PDP flag-bearers in governorship and other elective positions in Enugu State.

“More importantly, we call on Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to work with the national leadership of the PDP to ensure a credible, transparent, and violence-free delegates and primary election in the state.

“This, in our view, is the only way to reduce tension and ensure that the outcome of the process is acceptable to all. This will help our state to reduce a lot of problems associated with electioneering seasons.

“We call on the political actors and stakeholders, especially all aspirants to various offices, to play by the rule and the Igbo principle of live and let live.

“While political interests may vary, on the peace, progress, and prosperity of Enugu State and its overall interest we must all stand.”

Among persons seeking to contest the PDP governorship ticket in Enugu are Ike Ekweremadu, former deputy president of the senate; and Chijioke Edeoga, former commissioner for environment who recently resigned his position.