From Magnus Eze, Enugu
The Obi-Datti Coalition in Enugu State otherwise called OBIdient Movement has applauded the Presidential candidate of Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, for declaring his total support for the governorship candidate of his party in the state, Mr. Chijioke Edeoga.
Recalling that it was Obi that persuaded Edeoga to join Labour Party and fly the party’s flag in Enugu State after what they termed as a manipulated and highly transactional primary election of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), they said that their principal must have identified character, competence and capacity in the governorship hopeful.
They disowned a group led by one Kennedy Iyere from Edo State, which purportedly endorsed another governorship candidate in the state in the name of ‘Obedients,’ insisting that that body had nothing to do with the authentic group recognised by Obi.
At a press conference in Enugu on Thursday, the Enugu Obi-Datti Coalition said having given their all to the birthing of a New Nigeria through Obi during these past months, and having found Edeoga as credible, compassionate, competent and prepared to work with Obi, OBIdients, the Labour Party and all lovers of Enugu State to birth a New Enugu, it has fully endorsed his candidature.
In a communique signed by Lead Convener of the body, Dr. Emmanuel Edoga, representing Doctors for Peter Obi, Comrade Wilfred Okeke (Secretary), representing New Nigeria Integrity Movement and Co-convener, Eric Eyutchae, among others, they assured that they will work for the LP candidate’s victory and hold him accountable while in office.
“The Principal of the OBIdient Movement, Peter Obi, has stated in several fora, that he is supporting Hon. Barr. Chijioke Edeoga. Peter asked Chijioke Edeoga to run in Labour Party. The integrity and trustworthiness of Peter Obi, is a big plus for Chijioke Edeoga. Mr. Peter Obi has also promised to guide and mentor all persons who will be elected on the platform of Labour Party.
“Enugu ObiDatti Coalition has confirmed that Hon. Barr. Chijioke Edeoga has studied the Presidential Manifesto of Peter Obi and Yusuf Baba-Ahmed Datti, and is committed to adopting the key concepts applicable at a state level.”