A forum of former Deputy Governors under the All Progressive Congress has appealed to the National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to ensure that they are accorded recognition as members of the National Executive Committee.
Former Deputy Governor in Imo State and Chairman of the Forum, Chris Alozie Akomas, made the demand on Monday when his group paid a solidarity visit to the former Kano State Governor.
Tribune reported that Akomas said former deputy Governors have expertise and experience that the party could benefit from.
He said, “It bothers us that deputy governors are not members of the NEC with all the experiences we carry. We hope that will be redressed.”
The team also prayed that the new APC chairman survived what he called banana peels to have a seamless administration as chairman of the ruling party.
He said, “We are here to congratulate you for coming to office as national chairman.
“We pray to God to take away the banana peels, because we know the enormous responsibilities that go with the office of national chairman of the party, not to talk from the ruling party.
“The forum is bipartisan, and we remain focused on one thing: the unity and stability of the nation, and above all, the general good.”
In his response, Ganduje, who was a former Deputy Governor in Kano State under Rabiu Kwankwaso, said that having occupied the office, he was aware of the challenges and difficulties faced by deputy Governors.
“There is no doubt the position of the Deputy Governor is the most controversial position in governance. Not only in Nigeria but all over the world.
“Except in some nations where some of the governors contest for their own party. The Deputy Governor can contest in another party, win the election, and work together.
“In Nigeria, it has to be the same ticket. The position of Deputy Governor, as I always say, is the most controversial position. That is why God has no Deputy. Everyone is a servant. It is a no-go area.
“But as humans, our constitution has to provide for it as a spare tyre. And we all know the importance of a spare tyre. If you don’t need it when you are normal, then you will need it, when you are in trouble.”
