Kwankwaso picks form, says ‘it is not do or die’

Rabiu Kwankwaso, governor of Kano state, has picked the N27.5 million nomination and expression-of-interest forms to contest for the 2015 presidential election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015 elections.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, he promised to regard his co-aspirants as a family and strive to play by the rules, to ensure a rancour-free primary.

“Mr chairman, at the convention yesterday (Wednesday), you said all the aspirants who have shown interest have ‎promised to work together,” NAN quoted him as saying.

“It is not a do-or-die affair. I assure you we will play the game according to the rules. Our participation is to add value to the party.”

The governor said many of his friends were still willing to defect to the APC.

“I assure you, sir, that many more decampees are on the way after Tambuwal because they desire change and this party has all it takes to give Nigerians desired change.”

Kwankwaso commended the national working committee of the APC for “its determination to bring change and for forming a formidable group for the success of the party”.

“I also want to thank those who contributed to ‎purchase these forms. I have the capacity to buy the forms but they secretly paid and assured me there is enough money for the campaigns.”

Responding, John Odigie-Oyegun, the APC chairman, expressed happiness that more people planned to defect to the party.

“Part of the amendment to our electoral constitution makes it possible for any eligible son to join the party today and contest tomorrow; so tell them they’re welcome; we have more forms for them,” he said.

“I am also glad to hear you’re ready to play politics without rancour. Your words show your love for the country and personal commitment.”

The chairman further expressed delight that APC “is the number one newsmaker today”, saying the party is popular both locally and internationally.

Oyegun prayed that God would give Nigeria a man “that will give us tangible change we can see or touch”.

Kwankwaso had declared his intention to contest the presidential election at a rally in Abuja on Tuesday.