The Coalition of Councillorship Candidates for the 2024 local government elections in Rivers State has announced that they will not challenge the results of the elections held on October 5 in court, despite their outcomes not being favorable.
Akwu Chilegide Jonathan, Chairman of the Forum and Accord Party Councillorship Candidate for Ward 1 in Emohua Local Government Area, made the declaration during a press conference in Port Harcourt, the state capital, on Saturday.
“We will not contest the election results in court to promote peace and collective development in Rivers State and support Governor Siminalayi Fubara at this time,” Jonathan stated.
He emphasized that, while the results were not in their favor, the Coalition remains committed to fostering peace and unity within Rivers State.
He also reflected on the lessons learned from their grassroots engagement, stressing the importance of inclusive representation that allows every citizen, regardless of political affiliation or background, to have a voice in governance.
The Coalition condemned the recent acts of vandalism targeted at local government offices and urged law enforcement to hold the perpetrators accountable.
In a further show of unity, Jonathan called on Governor Fubara to work closely with the Coalition to address the state’s pressing needs at the grassroots level.
Also speaking at the event, Cyril Nwaoma, Secretary of the Coalition, echoed Jonathan’s sentiments.
He acknowledged the candidates’ collective efforts throughout the election period and expressed their readiness to support the government’s agenda for the betterment of Rivers State.
The Coalition also made a strong appeal to the youth of Rivers State, urging them to avoid engaging in unlawful activities and to resist any attempts at exploitation.
They reaffirmed their commitment to peace and pledged to maintain their organizational structure to contribute positively to the state’s development under Governor Fubara’s leadership.
This announcement follows a similar move by the Coalition of Chairmanship Candidates, who had previously declared their support for Governor Fubara in the interest of maintaining peace and unity in Rivers State.