Former vice president of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar has said that Rivers State Local Government Elections stand as a beacon of hope, offering renewed vigour to constitutional democracy, maintaining that the elections present an opportunity to uphold Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy which will further breath life into the foundational principles of the federal republic of Nigeria.
He further stated that the election in Rivers State resounds as a powerful affirmation of constitutionalism and the rule of law, a cause that should rally the support of all true champions of democracy, noting that it is a call to every believer in the democratic process to stand firm in defence of the people’s right to choose their leaders freely and fairly.
He commended Governor Siminilayi Fubara for his courageous disposition to ensure the local government elections hold in the state, enjoining Rivers people and residents to go out and exercise their franchise by voting the leaders of their choice at the grassroot level.
The former PDP presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections made the remarks in a post on his verified Facebook account in reaction to the tension built up among different political parties and camps in Rivers State concerning the October 5 Local Government Elections in the state.
“The local government elections in Rivers State tomorrow stand as a beacon of hope, offering renewed vigour to constitutional democracy at the very core of governance. These elections present an opportunity to uphold the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy, breathing life into the foundational principles of our republic.
“Undoubtedly, this election resounds as a powerful affirmation of constitutionalism and the rule of law, a cause that should rally the support of all true champions of democracy. It is a call to every believer in the democratic process to stand firm in defence of the people’s right to choose their leaders freely and fairly.
“I commend Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his courageous leadership in ensuring local government elections are held in Rivers State. I also encourage every resident to embrace their civic duty with peace and purpose as they cast their votes, selecting those who will lead at the grassroots level.
“It is my unwavering conviction that the democratic process is sacred, and through it, the people must be empowered to shape their future by choosing their leaders in every local community. —AA