PDP will get stronger to take over in 2019 —Gboyega Isiaka

A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Ogun State, Mr Gboyega Isiaka, on Thursday, said that  divisive factors in the PDP were being calmed, such that the party would forge a stronger front to take over the reins of power in Ogun State and other states in the country come 2019.

He stated that beyond power blocs and godfathers, his emergence will be largely determined by the electorates.

Isiaka who made this known in an interaction with Nigerian Tribune, at its Ibadan office, uplifted his capabilities and understanding of the challenges of the state as his selling points to Ogun electorates.

Speaking on his 2019 ambition, he stated that his priorities would be economic expansion, agriculture, industrialisation, jobs creation and welfare.

Especially, Isiaka expressed desire towards the existence of a South West free trade zone to boost commerce and industrialisation in the geopolitical zone.

Though he said he was not averse to continuing some projects of the Governor Ibikunle Amosun administration, Isiaka pointed out that projects had to be given priorities and should spread across all zones of the state.

“Election may be backed by power blocs yet people take their decisions. I have leaders, fathers but the people of Ogun state are my overall boss and the greatest determinant.”

“I have identified the power blocs but we must recognise God Almighty and the people as critical.

I want to contribute my quota to humanity and make life better for the people. The rationale of all this remains the people and we must look at the people’s yearnings and make their lives better. Let us emphasize the importance of the electorates beyond divisive factors.”

“What determines the winner of the next election is not only party structure. But PDP is stronger today than it was yesterday. We now have one PDP led by Ahmed Makarfi and factions in states are being taken care of. The party will continue to get stronger.”

On the clamour for zoning, Isiaka said his aspiration was not based on his zone, but noted that equity and justice demanded that Yewa should produce the next governor.

“My aspiration is not based on where I come from but on my capabilities. Equity and justice demands that Yewa should produce governor, since we have never produced one.”

“But, we need someone who truly knows the state, has the capacity and wants to make the state better. My area of origin is only an added advantage,” Isiaka said.

On the Isiaka team that came visiting were his media assistant, Mr Wale Junaid and Director of Media and Value Orientation, Believe Movement, Mr Kola Ogunleye.

The Isiaka team was received by members of the Tribune management to include Editor Nigerian Tribune, Mr Debo Abdulai; Sunday Tribune Editor, Mr Sina Oladeinde; Saturday Tribune Editor, Mr Lasisi Olagunju; General Manager, Online, Ms Tinuola Ayanniyi; Associate Editors, Wole Efunnuga and Kunle Oderemi.