Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has expressed regret that his party, the People’s Democratic Party, will not participate in the October 5 Local Government Elections.
Governor Fubara made this statement on Thursday during a meeting with party stakeholders at the Rivers State Government House.
He cited the need to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy and the Federal Government’s three-month extension for implementation, according to Channels TV.
Despite PDP’s non-participation, Fubara emphasized the importance of following the law and the RSIEC Law. He urged residents to return to their local government areas, participate in the process, and maintain peace.
The governor acknowledged being the “greatest loser” due to his party’s non-participation but prioritized upholding democratic principles. The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission has confirmed that 17 out of 18 registered political parties will participate in the elections.
The development comes amidst controversy surrounding the elections, with some factions opposing the polls. However, Fubara remains committed to conducting the elections, citing the Supreme Court’s judgment mandating elected officials to manage local government affairs.
The governor appealed for calm and adherence to democratic principles, ensuring a peaceful electoral process. The October 5 elections will proceed as scheduled, with RSIEC overseeing the polls in all 23 local government areas of Rivers State.
“You know this election, I am the greatest loser because my party is not participating. It is the truth!” Fubara said.
“Go, do what the law says you should do, as demanded by the RSIEC Law, and leave the rest. RSIEC will take it from there, and when RSIEC finishes its part, the State Government will also take it from that point and finish its part, and the process will all be consummated by the special grace of God in a few days.
“But because of the Supreme Court ruling that there must be elected officials to manage the affairs of local governments, as a governor, I have to obey that.
“And a good number of you here are my party faithful and you are not even benefiting from it, and you are here supporting us. So, what is the problem?
“So, I want to thank you for supporting democracy. I want to thank you for ensuring that there is a rule of law. I want to thank you for sticking your neck out to make sure that Rivers State still stands among the comity of states.”