Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi and presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) says he has every right to contest the primary election of the party.

He said he was not part of the consensus arrangement of the party and decision of the APC’s governors to yield power to the south.

Speaking with with newsmen after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, Bello expressed optimism that he would clinch the party’s ticket in a free and fair election.

“I am a free citizen and a qualified member of the party. I am contesting.

“I bought the form, was cleared to participate in the primary election, and there is no reason for me to be excluded from the ballot,” he said. “If they do so, then that is a recipe for bigger trouble for the party.”

Bello disclosed that the clamour for southern presidency in 2023 is not an advocacy of the majority but that of some vested interests.

“However, I don’t think it is a decision of the party. It is a decision of a few elites who may decide to use their position to oppress the so-called minority.

“So, nobody consulted me over the decision that power be shifted to the south, and I would say they were enrolled by a certain interest that wants to be the Vice President at all costs.

“And I continue to oppose the issue of ‘turn by turn’ presidency because the insecurity that is facing us today does not respect that.

“Every part of this country is faced with insecurity and wants prosperity, and we want unity in this country, which is what I stand for.

“Who should be able to solve that problem is what should occupy our minds now, not the rotational presidency.

“I strongly believe that getting into that arena today, I will win overwhelmingly if the process and normal regulations are followed, I will emerge victorious,” he said.

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