The Peoples Democratic Party has said it was not ready to screen presidential aspirants on the platform of the party for now.
The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Kola Ologbondiyan, gave the reasons for the development in an interview he granted The PUNCH.
Among aspirants on the platform of the party who have purchased its Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms are former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN); former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; and former Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal.
Others who have shown interest in the race include former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso; Governor of Gombe State, Ibrahim Dankwambo; former Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido; former Governor of Kano State, Ibrahim Shekarau; and former Governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa.
Ologbondiyan told The PUNCH: “There is nothing to worry about in that (non-release of the screening panel).
“You know we are still selling our forms.
“As soon as we are done with the selling of the forms, we will constitute the panel.
“We have nothing to hide.
“The aspirants are also aware of that.
“The party has said that it will be transparent and we will abide by that.
“So, we have nothing to fear or worry about.”