Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar on Sunday hailed the conduct of the just-concluded local government election in Rivers State and its outcoming, saying voters in the oil-rich State have demonstrated their aversion for oppression.
The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) late Saturday night announced the Action Peoples Party (APP) winner of 22 of the 23 LGAs in the State.
The result of the election in Etche LGA was announced today with Action Alliance (AA) picking the chairmanship seat.
Reacting to the outcome, Atiku commended the people of Rivers for “their steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that yesterday’s election unfolded with peace and integrity.”
Sniggering at the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who has been at loggerheads with Governor Sim Fubara, without calling his name, Atiku described the outcome of the election as “a rejection of machinations of self-serving godfathers.”
“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,” he further stated.
“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 and shun tyranny and delusional ambition in their political endeavours.”
Full text of Atiku’s statement is as follows:
“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 have 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 and shun 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, @SimFubaraKSC, 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.” -AA
