Former House of Representatives member, Dr. Farah Dagogo, has emerged as the Rivers State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In the party’s direct primaries held across the 319 wards in the 23 local government areas of the state, Dagogo polled 64,700 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Dr. Sokonte Davies, who secured 9,050 votes.
The result was announced by the Chairman of the ADC Rivers State Governorship Primary Electoral Committee, Dr. Agu Bryan, alongside other committee members and representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Bryan said the primaries were conducted in line with the party’s guidelines and that Dagogo, having satisfied all necessary requirements, was duly declared winner.
Responding, Dagogo said the victory belonged to every member of the ADC and every Rivers resident who believes in a better future for the state.
“I wish to express my profound gratitude to the leadership and members of the African Democratic Congress in Rivers State for the confidence reposed in me by electing me as the party’s governorship candidate for the forthcoming gubernatorial election.
“I am deeply honoured to have emerged from among several distinguished and highly qualified aspirants who equally sought the party’s ticket.
“This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to every member of our great party and every Rivers citizen who believes in the possibility of a better future for our state. In this journey, there is no victor and no vanquished, only partners united by a common vision to reposition Rivers State for progress and prosperity,” he stated.
He urged Rivers people to rise above division and embrace unity, inclusiveness and collective responsibility.
“The task before us is greater than any individual ambition; it is about building a functional, secure and economically viable Rivers State that works for everyone.
“This project is bigger than any individual or political interest. It is a collective mission that requires the support, ideas and participation of all residents and stakeholders across Rivers State.
“We are determined to build upon the legacies of past administrations, from the foundational leadership of Commander Alfred Diete-Spiff, to Chief Ada George, Dr. Peter Odili, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Chief Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara. We will learn from their successes, improve upon their shortcomings, and chart a new course that prioritises sustainable development and people-centred governance,” he promised.
Dagogo assured that he would run an issue-based campaign focused on solutions and measurable outcomes.
“We will not engage in mudslinging, personal attacks or divisive politics. Instead, we will present clear policies and actionable plans on how to improve security, provide affordable and quality education, empower our youths, create jobs and economic opportunities, strengthen healthcare delivery and restore the pride and dignity of Rivers State,” he added.
Blessing Ibunge
