A founding member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Preye Aganaba, says Nigeria cannot afford to miss the option of having Vice President Yemi Osinbajo as president the way it ignored the service of the late Obafemi Awolowo.

“For once, Nigeria cannot afford to miss the Osinbajo option, the way we lost Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who was the best president Nigeria never had,” Mr Aganaba said.

Mr Aganaba, who described Mr Osinbajo as the best presidential aspirant among other APC contenders, said his entrance into the race marked a beacon of hope for discipline and selflessness in public service.

The former governorship aspirant in Bayelsa said the vice president has, over time, demonstrated honesty and integrity, recalling when Mr Osinbajo was in charge of the Social Investment Programme (SIP).

“Unlike some ambitious politically exposed persons, who take advantage of the slightest opportunity to betray their boss, vice president Osinbajo has remained a loyal vice-president.

“When President Muhammadu Buhari was faced with health challenges, he stood by him in prayer and made sure it did not affect the smooth running of the administration of the country,” he said.

Mr Aganaba stressed that the presidential aspirant had a strong appeal among youths and women across Nigeria.

“Since he announced his intent to run for the presidency, he has resisted all attempts at pushing him into a headlong collision with one of the frontline presidential aspirants, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is widely regarded as his political godfather.

“This is a direct reflection of his discipline, humility and respectful mould of character and learning.

“Therefore, the APC presidential primary is a defining moment of choice of a transformational leader with integrity,” the politician said.

(NAN)