Rivers LG Poll: Atiku Expresses Support for Fubara

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the midst of heightened political tension in Rivers State has expressed his support for the local government elections scheduled for October 5, 2024.

Atiku described these elections as a pivotal moment for constitutional democracy, emphasizing their role in upholding the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy.

He stated, "The local government elections in Rivers State tomorrow stand as a beacon of hope, offering renewed vigour to constitutional democracy at the very core of governance."

Atiku commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his leadership in ensuring the elections proceed, despite significant opposition and challenges. He urged residents to embrace their civic responsibilities by voting peacefully and purposefully.

Atiku's endorsement comes amid a backdrop of controversy, with the national body of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) urging Rivers citizens to assert their rights by participating in the elections.

Governor Fubara has faced resistance from various quarters, including an alleged police invasion of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) premises, which he claims was an attempt to disrupt the electoral process.

Despite these challenges, Fubara remains resolute, insisting that the elections are sacrosanct and must proceed as planned. The governor has accused the Inspector General of Police and the Nigeria Police Force of serving the interests of an Abuja-based politician to undermine the elections.

The situation has been further complicated by the withdrawal of police security from the election, citing a court judgment. This move has drawn criticism from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which condemned the police's decision as contrary to their constitutional duties.

In response, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, asserted that the police would not allow the state to descend into chaos over political disputes.