The tension is high in Rivers as Governor Fubara and FCT Minister Wike are in a fierce battle for control of the political structure at the grassroots level. The National PDP supports the poll, while the Rivers chapter, loyal to Wike, urges residents to boycott it.
Despite conflicting signals, Governor Fubara insists on holding the election with RSIEC, accusing the Police of bias and serving the interests of an Abuja-based politician. The APP disowns a faction claiming to be their leadership and supports RSIEC's decision to proceed with the poll.
Governor Fubara, during a press conference, emphasized that the election will go on as planned, despite attempts to stop it. He criticized the Police for their actions and emphasized that all necessary preparations have been made for the election.
His words: “In the early hours of this morning (Friday), I got a security report that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission office has been invaded by the Nigerian Police. I was really surprised because before that time, I got a copy of a signal withdrawing the police officers that were guarding the premises. So, I had to drive to the place myself since the facility belongs to Rivers State Government.
“Getting to the scene, and to the shock of everyone who accompanied me there, I saw some fierce looking policemen in one truck and three other empty Hilux vans trying to force their way into the premises. I had to stop them. In the process, we discovered that that movement (operation), was a deliberate attempt by the Nigerian Police Force, both the Rivers State Command and the Headquarters (Abuja), to steal the electoral materials. But by the special grace of God, that act was foiled.”
Governor Fubara questioned how so low the Nigeria Police stooped, allowing their officers to engage in such illegal acts that clearly suggested that they had become enemies of Rivers State.
Otherwise, the governor wondered why the Nigeria Police will attempt to take over control of RSIEC or be used to stop a democratic process that is ongoing, which will lead to the emergence of elected political leadership at the local government councils.
0 Comments