The Forum of Political Parties (FPP), Lagos State, on Saturday threw weight behind Sen. Bola Tinubu, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for the 2023 presidential race.
The forum, made up some political parties (registered and de-registered) in Lagos State, told newsmen in Oshodi that the return of Tinubu from medical trip in London had ignited political activities in the country.
Speaking, the Coordinator of the forum, Chief Kola Ajayi, said that it has become imperative for some opposition political parties in the state to unite and speak with one voice, ahead of 2023 presidential race.
Ajayi, the Lagos State Chairman, Action for Democracy and former Chairman, Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Lagos State, said the forum was glad Tinubu returned from medical trip hale and hearty.
“We know our prayers kept you alive, and we will not cease in joining others to continue to pray for you for long life, good health and a discerning mind.
“We are optimistic that you will still be round for a long time to come, even after your two term of eight years in Aso rock as the President of Nigeria,” Ajayi said.
Listing Tinubu’s landmark achievements in the state, Ajayi said that Tinubu pioneered the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) which had enhanced commuting around the state.
Ajayi, who is also the head of a Directorate in the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) in Charge of Political Parties in Lagos State, said that the forum acknowledged Tinubu’s reforms in the judiciary, health, education, transportation sectors among others.
He said that Tinubu built general hospitals in the state and improved the remuneration for health care workers, teachers while also introducing the Millennium Schools to meet the latest World and UNESCO standards.
Ajayi said also highlighted establishment of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Lagos State Waste Management Authority, Lagos Internally Revenue Services and other pioneering agencies as handwork of Tinubu.
The coordinator said that Tinubu’s creation of the 37 local council development areas (LCDA) has helped in bringing governance closer to the people.
“With your achievements in the past, we know that if you assume the presidency of this nation, Nigerians will sing a new song and the citizens will be better for it.
“The majority of the political parties in Lagos State are rooting for your presidency sir.
“We want you to contest sir. And we assure you of our unwaivering and total support. Please, oblige us this humble request of ours.
“If not you sir, who else? If not now, when? Asiwaju is our choice in 2023.No going back,” he added.
Ajayi said the forum was confident that SWAGA led by Primate Charles Odugbesi in Lagos State would achieve giant strides, and do many exploits.
Other political parties in the forum include Action Peoples Party (APP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and National Rescue Movement (NRM).
Others are the Action Alliance, Alliance for Democracy, Because Of Our Tomorrow (BOOT Party), among others.
Groups loyal to Tinubu, like the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) and the Tinubu Support Group (TSG) and others have been rooting and calling on Tinubu to run for the presidential election in 2023.
Tinubu, however, has not come out publicly to declare intention to run for the presidential election in 2023.
