By CHUKWUMA OFILI
Party Warns Against Undermining Democracy and Calls for Peaceful Voting
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a strong warning to the Nigeria Police against any actions that could undermine democracy, while encouraging the residents of Rivers State to actively participate in the upcoming Local Government Area elections scheduled for Saturday.
Governor Fubara Affirms Election Will Proceed
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, reaffirmed on Thursday that the local government elections will take place as planned, despite protests from supporters of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Governor Fubara cautioned against any attempts by individuals or groups to disrupt the electoral process, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining stability in the state.
Rising Tensions Among Political Factions
Tensions have escalated in the lead-up to the elections, with PDP members loyal to Wike and a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Chief Tony Okocha withdrawing from the electoral process. They cited concerns over irregularities and a lack of due process by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). Governor Fubara has accused the Nigeria Police of colluding with Wike to undermine the local government elections.
PDP Reaffirms Readiness for Election
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP expressed confidence in the readiness of the people of Rivers State for the election. Ologunagba stated that the RSIEC has confirmed its preparedness and possession of the necessary materials to conduct a fair election. He asserted that no court under the Electoral Act 2022 can halt the election process.
The statement read, “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) charges the people of Rivers State to firmly assert their sovereignty and constitutional right by coming out en masse to vote in the Local Government Area election across the State on Saturday, October 5, 2024.”
Commitment to Democratic Principles
The PDP emphasized that the right to participate in democratic activities belongs to the citizens of Rivers State and cannot be undermined by any individual or group. The party highlighted the importance of the electoral process, stating that “the people of Rivers State are ready for election,” and reiterated the RSIEC’s capability to conduct the elections in compliance with legal provisions.
Accountability and Law Enforcement
The PDP also called on Nigerians and the international community to hold the APC and Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, accountable for any potential breakdown of law and order in Rivers State. The party condemned the actions of the APC-controlled Police, which it claims aim to obstruct the electoral process against the will of the people.
“The reported invasion of RSIEC facilities by police operatives is a direct affront to our democracy and the rule of law,” the statement added. The PDP reaffirmed that the citizens of Rivers State are committed to exercising their democratic rights peacefully, despite any attempts to disrupt the electoral process.
Supporting the Electoral Process
Ologunagba commended the determination of the people of Rivers State to defend their right to vote and pledged the PDP’s support for their efforts to elect representatives who will effectively manage the affairs of the 23 Local Government Areas in accordance with legal frameworks. The party called for a peaceful and orderly election, underscoring the importance of upholding democracy in Nigeria.
