2023: Abacha’s Ally, Mokelu Obtains APC Presidential Form

Ikeobasi Mokelu, an ally of former military dictator, late Gen. Sani Abacha, has obtained the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential Expression of Interest and Nomination forms.

Naija News reports that members of the Mokelu Campaign Organisation picked up the forms on his behalf on Tuesday at the International Conference Centre (ICC).

Mokelu, in a chat with reporters, said he joined the 2023 presidential race to contribute his quota to the development of the country.

The APC stalwart, who is also an ally to President Muhamamdu Buhari, said that he was convinced that he was qualified to take on the challenge of moving the country to the next phase of greatness.

He, however, expressed optimism that he will emerge as the ruling party’s presidential candidate at its forthcoming primary scheduled for May 30.

He said: “I have a rich political and polity pedigree. I was born and mentored by two great nationalists and independence fighters.

“My belief in the enduring legacy of our forefathers led me to develop and encourage the crafting of various elements of what is today, the 1999 Constitution.

“It is on record that during my short tenure in office as Minister of Information and Culture, I fostered one of the best relationships with the media and civil society, even at the risk of losing my job.”

Mokelu joins the likes of Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, APC National Leader, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi and immediate past Imo governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha.

Others are Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi, Dr Chris Ngige, the Minister of Labour and Productivity; Chukwuemeka Nwajuba, Minister of State for Education; Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi, and former Senate President, Sen. Ken Nnamani.

Also in the race are Ekiti governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Ogun governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva; Pastor Tunde Bakare, former APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole; Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, among others.