PDP Demands Accountability From APC And IGP Over Rivers State Disturbances

PDP Demands Accountability From APC And IGP Over Rivers State DisturbancesThe Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Nigerians and the international community to hold Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and the All Progressives Congress (APC) accountable for any potential disruption of law and order in Rivers State.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP encouraged residents to participate actively in the Local Government Area elections scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024.

Ologunagba emphasized that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has confirmed its readiness to conduct the elections, stating that no court under the Electoral Act 2022 can halt the electoral process. He asserted that Egbetokun is constitutionally obligated to ensure a conducive environment for the elections.

The statement read, “The PDP maintains that the right to oversee democratic activities in Rivers State belongs to the people and cannot be restricted or usurped by any individual, group, or organization under any circumstances. The party believes the citizens of Rivers State are prepared for the elections, and the RSIEC has announced its readiness, possessing all necessary materials to conduct the elections in accordance with Supreme Court directives. No court, according to the amended Electoral Act 2022, has the authority to prevent elections from taking place.

“Section 84(15) of the Electoral Act, 2022 clearly states, ‘Nothing in this section shall empower the courts to stop the holding of primaries or general elections under the Act pending the determination of a suit.’

“The PDP vehemently condemns attempts by the APC-controlled Police to undermine and obstruct the smooth conduct of the Rivers State Local Government Area elections against the will of the people, the Supreme Court’s ruling, the provisions of the amended Electoral Act, and the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999.

“The reported intrusion of Police operatives into RSIEC facilities to disrupt the elections is a direct challenge to our democracy and the rule of law, an act firmly opposed by the residents of Rivers State who are determined to express their will at the polls.

“The Police and the APC should understand that while the people of Rivers State are peaceful and law-abiding, they will not allow anyone to suppress or manipulate their choice in selecting their local government leaders.

“The PDP calls on Nigerians and the international community to hold the APC and the Inspector General of Police responsible for any breakdown of law and order in Rivers State at this time. The Inspector General of Police must recognize his constitutional duty to create a secure environment for the smooth conduct of the Rivers State Local Government Area elections, regardless of his personal stance. He is called upon to act professionally for the greater good of our hard-won democracy and the stability of Nigeria.

““nce. He is called upon to act professionally for the greater good of our hard-won democracy and the stability of Nigeria.

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