UK-Based Quantity Surveyor Victor Ekunyan Announces PDP Presidential Candidacy for 2027
Victor Femi Ekunyan, a quantity surveyor based in the United Kingdom, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). He made this announcement on Tuesday in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, where he hails from Ise-Orun Local Government Area.
Ambitious Policy Proposals and Strategic Agenda
Ekunyan unveiled a comprehensive 7-point strategic agenda aimed at repositioning Nigeria from its current socio-economic challenges. He emphasized a focus on sustainable development, institutional reforms, and improved governance to address the country's crises. Among his key pledges, he vowed to increase the minimum wage for workers to N150,000 if elected, aiming to alleviate economic hardships.
Commitment to Job Creation and Social Welfare
The presidential aspirant outlined plans to create 30 million jobs, alongside implementing free and compulsory education up to the tertiary level and providing free health services. He argued that with proper prioritization of national needs, sufficient funds would be available for these critical programs, which he believes are essential for national progress.
Security Overhaul and Recruitment Drive
Addressing Nigeria's pervasive insecurity, Ekunyan pledged to tackle banditry and other criminal activities within 24 hours of taking office. He expressed confidence that decisive leadership, improved coordination among security agencies, and adequate resource deployment would curb criminalities. He attributed the worsening security challenges to systemic lapses within the government, alleging collaboration between some insiders and criminal elements.
Ekunyan highlighted the inadequacy of the nation's security manpower, noting that the current workforce of about 500,000 personnel is insufficient to effectively police over 200 million Nigerians. To remedy this, he proposed recruiting 3 million additional security personnel to strengthen the system, ensuring better protection for citizens.
Agricultural and Infrastructure Development Plans
On agriculture, Ekunyan proposed establishing 20,000 farm hubs nationwide, equipped with storage, processing, and packaging facilities to boost food security and enhance value chains. For infrastructure, he outlined plans for an inter-state rail network, improved road connectivity, stable electricity supply through diverse energy sources, and enhanced telecommunications to drive economic growth.
Healthcare and Party Resilience
In the health sector, Ekunyan promised free medical services, expansion of health facilities, improved welfare for health workers, and increased investment in modern equipment to enhance healthcare delivery. Meanwhile, Sanya Atofarati, the PDP South-West Publicity Secretary, affirmed the party's strength despite current challenges, insisting it is not on the verge of extinction.
Atofarati expressed confidence that the PDP would overcome internal issues and reposition itself ahead of the forthcoming general elections, citing its track record as resonating with Nigerians. He stated, "The PDP is alive and bouncing back. Regardless of the challenges, we remain trusted and tested by Nigerians. Efforts are ongoing to unite the leadership in the overall interest of the country."
