- Acknowledges supporters amid legal battle over gubernatorial election
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
In a heartfelt homecoming and thanksgiving event, Dr. Emmanuel David Ombugadu, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 elections, expressed gratitude to the people of Nasarawa State for their unwavering support during the contentious electoral process.
Daily Sun reports that Ombugadu’s return to his hometown, Akwanga, marked a significant moment in his political journey, amidst legal battles over the election results.
Addressing a diverse audience of party stakeholders and supporters at his residence, known as the White House on Wednesday, Ombugadu reflected on the resilience of his supporters and the challenges encountered during the electoral contest. He remarked, “My returning home today is to thank my people for the support showed to me during the governorship election.”
Recall that the gubernatorial race, which pitted Ombugadu against incumbent Governor Abdullahi Sule, witnessed a tumultuous legal aftermath.
Despite the initial declaration of Sule as the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ombugadu pursued legal recourse, ultimately securing victory at the tribunal. However, subsequent rulings at the appeal and supreme court overturned the tribunal’s decision, leading to continued contention over the election outcome.
Ombugadu’s journey back to Akwanga was marked by a procession through key local government areas, including Karu, Keffi, and Kokona, culminating in a warm reception by enthusiastic supporters, particularly women, who rallied to welcome him home at Akwanga his place of residence.
In a gesture of appreciation and commitment to community welfare, Ombugadu announced the rollout of free National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) enrolment for 13,000 women across the 13 local government areas of the state.
“This initiative aims to enhance healthcare accessibility and support women’s well-being within the region.”
Ombugadu unveiled plans to bolster healthcare accessibility through a substantial allocation of funds for a health insurance initiative.
“I’m pleased to announce that a cheque of one hundred and ninety-five million naira for a health insurance initiative has been budgeted,” Ombugadu declared, signaling a significant investment in public health initiatives within the state.
In a poignant display of altruism, Ombugadu affirmed his pledge to continue supporting healthcare initiatives, regardless of his political status.
He articulated his vision for private sector participation in healthcare delivery as a means of giving back to the community. “Whether in government or not, I will continue to support healthcare initiatives through private participation in my own little ways of giving back to the people,” he affirmed, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in fostering a healthier society.
Echoing the adage that “a wealthy nation is a healthy nation,” Ombugadu emphasised the symbiotic relationship between economic prosperity and public health. He called upon all Nigerians to prioritise investments in wealth creation, recognising the intrinsic link between socioeconomic development and healthcare outcomes.
Underscoring his unwavering commitment to the realisation of Nasarawa State’s aspirations, Ombugadu reaffirmed his dedication to seeing the state’s dream come to fruition. “The dream of Nasarawa State must be realised,” he declared resolutely, signalling his steadfast resolve to pursue transformative change and progress within the region.
In a tangible demonstration of his commitment to healthcare accessibility, Ombugadu presented the cheque to stakeholders and had deposited nineteen point five million naira to the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
In a fervent address at Emmanuel Ombugadu’s homecoming event in Akwanga, Mr. Labaran Maku, Director General of the Campaign Council for David Ombugadu and Yahaya Ohinoyi, reiterated the belief in the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) electoral triumph in the 2023 gubernatorial election in Nasarawa State.
Maku’s remarks underscored the prevailing sentiments of victory amidst the backdrop of legal disputes and political upheaval.
“Everybody knows we won the election,” Maku declared emphatically, emphasising the unity among stakeholders in affirming the legitimacy of the electoral outcome.
He acknowledged the pivotal role played by Senator Walid Jubrin, former Chairman of the PDP’s Board of Trustees, in rallying support for the party’s cause.
Despite allegations of electoral malpractice and financial inducements, Maku remained steadfast in his conviction of the PDP’s victory. “Of all the money that was brought to Nasarawa State, PDP still won the election,” he asserted, reflecting on the resilience of the party’s grassroots support base.
Maku’s poignant commentary delved into the nuanced political landscape of Nasarawa State, where he delineated the existence of “two governors”: one ensconced in the government house, characterised as the “Judicial governor,” and the other symbolising the “people’s mandate governor” situated in Akwanga.
Amidst the tumultuous electoral saga, Maku lauded the steadfastness and courage displayed by the women of Nasarawa State. He commended their unwavering commitment to the electoral process, despite facing intimidation and adversity. “Women were not afraid of soldiers, police, and whoever,” Maku remarked, highlighting their pivotal role in shaping the political narrative.
Expressing concern over the recurrent challenges of electoral integrity, Maku called for concerted efforts to curb the menace of election rigging and judicial overturns. Looking towards the future, he urged women to unite for a common cause, citing their inherent trustworthiness and resilience as pillars for transformative change.
On his part, Hon. Francis Orogu, the PDP chairman, reiterated the party’s gratitude to supporters and underscored their unwavering belief in Ombugadu’s electoral victory. He emphasised, “The people now know that Ombugadu won the election, but the judiciary took it away from him.”
“The homecoming event not only celebrated Ombugadu’s resilience but also highlighted the enduring spirit of democracy and civic engagement within the state.”