Tinubu: I wanted to go to Ekiti but I decided to help them in Lagos

Bola Tinubu, a national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Saturday said he wanted to go attend the governorship primary election in Ekiti but decided to stay in Lagos because of the ward congress.

The primary election ended on an inconclusive note after violence broke out.

Speaking with journalists before the election ended in rancour on Saturday, Tinubu said the APC in Ekiti has capable leaders.

“We have responsible leadership around there. Sincerely, I had wanted to be in Ekiti but when you have this situation where congress is holding the same time their primary is holding, charity begins at home; I must stay in Lagos to ensure that I help them,” he said.

“There are capable leaders over there that will see to the smooth exercise of the primaries in Ekiti.”

The former Lagos governor said he does not have any anointed candidate in the state.

”I have no anointed candidate. Everyone there aspiring and contesting are very dear members and they deserve the right to participate,” he said.

”About 33 of them in all, and we only need one seat for governorship. We have had leadership discussions.

“I like the fact that they showed up respectfully and committed to the peace and stability of the party in that state.”

Tinubu said he is proud of the APC as the party is demonstrating to Nigerians that it is a law abiding political party.

“We believe in the tenets of democracy and that we demonstrate the openness in the congresses across the country, particularly. I can speak emphatically about Lagos that things are going according to plan, very open and transparent. People queued up behind whoever they want, no pre-ordained candidate. The turn-out is very impressive,” he said.

”The membership of the party is growing in leaps and bounds and open to all democrats who want to be identified with us.

”This is one of the best ways to energise the party that is almost remaining dormant at grassroots level and you could see the sense of belonging and the activities of ordinary people. It is a great joy for me.”

Speaking on the congress in Lagos, Tinubu said if there are complaints, it should be reported to the party’s headquarters.

”I am proud of what is happening. I am very proud of the leadership. The leaders are for everybody; no biases, and they should move on peacefully and help the country to grow and progress democratically,” he said.