AYU CHALLENGES WIKE'S STATEMENT

Iyorchia Ayu

Ayu calls Wike's and others' bluff and promises to continue serving as national chair Iyorchia. No one, according to Ayu, will succeed him as the People's Democratic Party's national chairman (PDP).

In Gboko, Benue state, Ayu talked to his fellows on Friday.

In recent weeks, there has been a lot of pressure on the PDP national chairman to resign, with calls for his resignation coming from all directions.

Governor of Rivers Nyesom Wike and his allies, including Governor of Benue Samuel Ortom, have promised to boycott the PDP presidential primary until Ayu resigns.

Residents of the Tiv-speaking region of Benue, where Ayu comes from, have expressed varying degrees of support for the governor's demand that Ayu resign.

In response to calls for him to step down, Ayu reassured his supporters that he would stay in power for as long as God allowed.

"Nothing should worry you, my people. Since started politics more than 30 years ago, you have never rejected me; you are always supporting me," he said.

"They say a prophet has no respect in his home but my case is different. I am overwhelmed by this great show of love

"The PDP is one and not divided. am trying my best not

to disappoint the Benue people and Nigerians in general.

"So, if you hear that they want to chase Ayu out as national chairman, don't be worried. Nobody is going to sack me as national chairman of our party. will leave the seat on a day that God permits.

"It is God that enthrones leadership - he uses people to enthrone a person over others and protects that person.

"I want to assure you that all these days, God has been protecting me, even when I went on sick leave abroad. God is still protecting me."