'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – On Sunday, former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, said that the outcome of the local government elections in Rivers State is a rejection of political intimidation and godfatherism in the state.
This marked the first time Atiku would publicly interfere in the Rivers state political crisis since the beginning of the impasse between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
DAILY COURIER recalls that the former Vice President had fallen out with Wike in the 2023 Presidential election.
The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) had declared the Fubara-backed Action Peoples Party (APP) as the winner in 22 of the 23 chairmanship seats in Saturday’s Local Government election held in the State. The election was held amid the lingering feud between Wike and Governor Fubara.
In a statement he personally signed on Sunday, Atiku said the conclusion of the Local Government polls has shown an end to political intimidation and judicial chicanery.
Atiku, who applauded Governor Fubara, said the outcome of the election indicated that he showed an unwavering commitment to people’s interests and the sanctity of the local government elections.
Commending the people of Rivers State for their steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that Saturday’s election unfolded with peace and integrity, Atiku charged the newly elected Local Government leaders to prioritise the welfare of citizens and shun tyranny.
The statement reads: “With the conclusion of the local government election in Rivers State, the shadows of political intimidation and judicial chicanery have dissipated, paving the way for the noble pursuit of governance to commence in the State.
“From the bustling heart of Port Harcourt to the tranquil shores of Onne, the populace has spoken in harmonious unison, affirming that nothing can better democracy!
“As prophesied, it has now been revealed that the citizens of Rivers are astute and resolute, unwavering in their rejection of any form of political oppression, harassment, or the machinations of self-serving godfathers.
“As I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected local government leaders, I urge them to wear the welfare of the people as their foremost badge of honour, shunning the path of tyranny and delusional ambition in their political endeavours.
“Moreover, I commend the resilient people of Rivers State for their steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that yesterday’s election unfolded with peace and integrity.
“I must also applaud Governor Fubara for his unwavering commitment to the people’s interests, safeguarding the sanctity of the local government elections even amidst provocative challenges.
“In the grand tapestry of this election, it is ultimately the people who emerge victorious, their sacred right to choose their leaders firmly upheld within the framework of our democratic process.”