The governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, has denied there are plans to make him a running mate of former anti-corruption czar and presidential aspirant, Nuhu Ribadu, on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the 2011 elections.
Mr. Oshiomhole’s denial is made against the backdrop of continuous media speculation linking him with Mr. Ribadu..
Some media reports have claimed talks were held on the matter by leaders of the opposition party.
‘Just speculation’
Mr. Oshiomhole, who spoke to journalists yesterday in Benin City, said he would publicly announce his ambition if he is convinced about seeking any national public office.
The governor said he does not believe in rumours and sponsored speculations, adding that he is focused on developing his state.
“My intention now is to develop Edo State, and we are happy with what we are doing. When I make up my mind to seek any public office, I will make it public,” he said.
“I am not one of those that will sponsor people to call for declaration to seek public office.”
Mr. Oshiomhole’s media adviser, Tony Iyare, also denied his boss has had any talk with any individual or group on a possible joint presidential ticket.
“To the best of my knowledge, I am not aware that the Governor has been offered a joint presidential ticket with Nuhu Ribadu,” he said. “Nothing of such has happened. All I know is that there is a lot of speculation (on the matter) in the media. This is all in the realm of the media.”
Ribadu will run
Clearing the fog on Mr. Ribadu’s stand, his spokesman, Chido Onuma said his boss will contest the 2011 presidential election even though he has not decided his political platform and running mate.
Mr. Onuma said: “It is not certain what political platform Mr. Ribadu will be running under, but he has been approached by several parties. He is currently consulting widely with other politicians and groups. At the end of the day, he will sit back and decide which political platform fits into his plans and visions.”
Mr. Ribadu has opened a presidential campaign office at Wuse II, Abuja prior to an anticipated formal declaration for the office of the president.
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