Delegates of the All Progressives Congress voted today at the party’s Lagos East senatorial primaries which held at the Lagos State Government Chalet, Epe.
Senator ‘Gbenga Ashafa who currently serves as the senator representing Lagos East turned out to be the sole candidate contesting the primaries . However, in accordance with the party’s constitution and guidelines, delegates had to vote to ratify and endorse his candidacy.
The result was an overwhelming 98% endorsement which was reflected in the votes counted.
His brief acceptance speech is outlined below as sent to NewsWireNGR for publication:
“Fellow progressives, like the phoenix, we have emerged from the ashes of yesterday’s slight misunderstanding at Ikorodu Town Hall which prompted the rescheduling of this senatorial primaries. It is my hope that all aggrieved parties will sheathe their swords and work together for the re-emergence of our party in the 2015 elections, bearing in mind that the primaries is just the beginning of what promises to be an intense race to continue and build upon what we have started.
Today, I accept your nomination with a deep sense of humility and a renewed sense of duty. I also accept the responsibility that goes with it, and I seek your continued support. I accept it with only the obligation to devote every effort to uplift the welfare of the people of Lagos East.
Under any circumstances, however, the victory we seek in February 2015 will not be easy. We all know that in our hearts. We recognize the power of the forces that will be aligned against us.
My progressive cause is to free our people and light the way for liberty throughout Lagos East. The APC’s cause is a very human cause for very humane goals. This party, its good people, and its unquestionable devotion to freedom will not fulfil the purposes of this campaign which we launch here now until our cause has won in 2015.
I am going to be part of the change next year and your vote will play a greater role. I urge you not to relent in this second journey. Thank you once again. Let the race begin.
Eko o ni baje o! Thank you all.”
