Following the emergence of Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate, Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State has begun the process of becoming the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial candidate for Sokoto South.
Tambuwal, who was key in Atiku’s election as the PDP’s presidential candidate, has abruptly withdrew and endorsed the former Vice President’s presidential bid.
On Saturday night, Atiku beat Nyesom Wike, his closest challenger, in the presidential primary of the largest opposition party.
Wike Mocks Tambuwal After PDP Presidential Primary ‘Betrayal’
371 delegates voted for Atiku, while 237 delegates voted for Wike.
The result were, Atiku Abubakar – 371; Nyesom Wike- 237; Bukola Saraki – 70; Udom Emmanuel – 38; Balla Mohammed – 20; Pius Anyim – 14; Sam Ohabunwa – 1; and Olivia Tariela scored 1. There were 12 void votes.
Tambuwal, whose second term as governor expires next year, has finalized arrangements to replace Aminu Bodinga (who was elected unchallenged) as the party’s candidate for Sokoto South in the national assembly election.
According to sources close to the Sokoto State administration, Tambuwal requested Bodinga, a former commissioner, to act as his proxy.
“Wasn’t it surprising that only Aminu Bala Bodinga contested for the seat? All the other aspirants refused to buy the form when they learnt that His Excellency had a plan B,” a chieftain of the PDP from Shagari Local Government said.
How Tambuwal Met Ayu, Saraki, Bala Mohammed Before Stepping Down For Atiku
He said Tambuwal co-opted the former commissioner to help execute his plan because Bodinga is one of his staunchest loyalists, adding that cabinet members are aware of the plan.
“They’re close friends and I can tell you no one knows the depth of their friendship,” he said.
He disclosed that Bodinga will notify the PDP of his plans to step down, which will pave the way for Tambuwal to replace him.
When contacted by Newsmen to comment on the issue, governor Tambuwal’s spokesperson, Muhammadu Bello, said he was not aware of the arrangement.
He sent a terse reply thus: “I don’t know”
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