Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed that he will be the “greatest loser” in the upcoming local government elections, as his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), will not participate in the polls.
Fubara made this remark while addressing political stakeholders at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday, as preparations for the elections continue.
During his address, the governor acknowledged the absence of his party in the elections but assured that the process must continue as mandated by law.
“Go, do what the law requires of you, as stipulated by the RSIEC Law, and leave the rest. RSIEC will handle its part, and once RSIEC concludes, the government will take it from there, and the process will be completed, by the special grace of God, in a few days,” Fubara stated.
Reflecting on his personal position regarding the elections, he noted, “You know, in this election, I am the greatest loser because my party is not participating. It’s the truth! But following the Supreme Court ruling that elected officials must manage local government affairs, as Governor, I must comply.”
Fubara further explained that the compliance with the Supreme Court ruling was reinforced during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
“The President, after the Supreme Court ruling, invited us, and we reached an agreement that there would be a compliance period of 90 days. So, even though my party is not participating, the local council process must proceed for Rivers State.”
He also commended loyal PDP members for their support despite the party’s absence in the polls.
“A good number of you here are loyal party members who won’t benefit from this, yet you are supporting us. So, what’s the issue?” he said, expressing gratitude for their dedication to democracy and the rule of law.
In his concluding remarks, Fubara encouraged stakeholders to stay resolute and not be swayed by misinformation or political agitation.
“Do not let anyone, any propaganda, any ‘aluta’ movement, or any misinformation deter your spirit at this time.”
Fubara assured that the Rivers State government would take all necessary measures to ensure a peaceful and organized election process, adding, “Rest assured that the government will do everything possible to ensure that Rivers State does not descend into confusion.”