The PDP encourages Rivers State residents to actively participate in the upcoming local government elections and issues a stern warning to the police on election conduct. Learn more.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the residents of Rivers State to actively participate in the upcoming Local Government Area elections by coming out in large numbers on Saturday, October 5, 2024.

In a statement from Debo Ologunagba, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, the party underscored that the people of Rivers State hold the power to engage in democratic processes, such as local elections. The PDP also asserted that no individual, group, or organization is entitled to disrupt this constitutional right.

“The residents of Rivers State are prepared for the election,” according to the statement, which highlighted that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) had announced its readiness and available resources to conduct the election in compliance with the Supreme Court’s decision.

Additionally, the PDP emphasized that no court has legal grounds under Section 84(15) ofthe amended Electoral Act 2022 to stop elections from taking place.

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The party heavily criticized the actions of what it termed the “APC-controlled Police,” accusing them of trying to undermine the electoral process in Rivers State.

The PDP claimed that a recent police raid on RSIEC facilities seemed like an attempt to disrupt the election, but this was met with resistance from determined residents who were intent on voting.

The statement cautioned that both the police and APC should recognize that while the people of Rivers State are dedicated to maintaining peace, they will not tolerate any attempts to undermine their right to choose their leaders, particularly at the local government level.

The PDP called on the Inspector General of Police to provide a secure and welcoming environment for the elections, emphasizing that his constitutional duty mandates impartiality in supporting the country’s democracy.

The statement ended by praising the residents of Rivers State for their dedication to democratic principles and urging them to actively engage in the electoral process. Additionally, the PDP appealed to both national and international communities to hold APC and law enforcement responsible should any disturbances arise.