2019: Buhari support group inaugurated in Edo

By Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

The support base of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been strengthened, following the inauguration of the Edo office of the Council for New Nigeria (CNN) on Monday in Benin City.
The group is made up of the National Committee of Buhari Support Group (NCBSG), ahead of the 2019 general election.
At the inauguration of the pressure group on Monday, the Senate Deputy Whip, Francis Alimenkhena, said the formation of many support groups for President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2019 re-election bid was not aimed at creating division within the ruling APC.
Sen. Alimenkhena, representing Edo Central District, said “We are happy to be in Benin. A formation of many groups to support our President’s re-election bid like this one is not an indication of division in APC. Please as a member of our party. do not distance yourselves from these groups. We are working towards one goal;
“Do not let this divide the APC. In 2015, we gave Buhari 46 per cent. We have promised to give him 80 per cent come 2019,’’ he said.
Earlier in his address of welcome, the interim state chairman of CNN, Chief Solomon Edebiri, said massive turnout of Edo people at the ceremony was an indication of their support for Buhari’s desire to seek re-election.
“We like to assure you that we align with the vision of Mr President to build a new Nigeria that will not be plagued by corruption, but provide a platform of hope for all Nigerians.
“We fully align with the vision and mission of CNN/NCBSG to promote the vision of Mr President for a better, stable and prosperous Nigeria. We will work with all stakeholders in this state to ensure victory at the 2019 general election for APC and Mr President”, he said.
It is reported that the CNN’s state office, along Airport Road, was inaugurated by Sen. Abu Ibrahim, NCBSG’s Board of trustee chairman.
Some of the dignitaries at the occasion included Sen. Etta Enang, Presidential Liaison Officer in charge of the National Assembly, Sen. Magnus Abe, Wilson Ake and Mr Aslem Ojesua, APC state chairman.
There were several other groups across the 18 Local Government Area of the state which were in attendance.