Atiku Hails Fubara, Says Rivers Rejects Godfatherism in LG Polls
Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, has praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his handling of the recent local government elections in Rivers State. In a statement released on Sunday, Atiku hailed the governor’s leadership, describing the election results as a rejection of godfatherism by the people of Rivers State.
The election, which took place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, occurred against the backdrop of a growing rift between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Despite Wike’s attempts to block the elections through the courts and with the support of security agencies, the elections went ahead, and the Fubara-backed Action Peoples Party (APP) secured 22 of the 23 local government areas, while the Action Alliance (AA) won the remaining one.
A New Chapter for Rivers State
Atiku’s statement highlights the significance of the election, noting that the results signal the end of political oppression and intimidation in Rivers State. He commended the people of Rivers for their courage in standing up against what he referred to as “self-serving godfathers” and praised their resolve in ensuring that the election was conducted peacefully, despite challenges. Atiku’s remarks are seen as a pointed reference to his ongoing feud with Wike, with whom he had a falling out during the buildup to the 2023 general elections.
According to Atiku, the outcome of the election reflects the will of the people and a rejection of any form of political manipulation. “From the bustling heart of Port Harcourt to the tranquil shores of Onne, the populace has spoken in harmonious unison, affirming that nothing can better democracy,” Atiku stated.
Praise for Governor Fubara’s Leadership
In his statement, Atiku also lauded Governor Fubara’s commitment to safeguarding the democratic process. He praised the governor for standing firm against attempts to disrupt the election and for ensuring that the people’s voices were heard. Atiku acknowledged the challenges that Fubara faced in conducting the election, particularly the political tension between the governor and Wike, but commended him for his determination to protect the integrity of the process.
“I must also applaud Governor Fubara for his unwavering commitment to the people’s interests, safeguarding the sanctity of the local government elections even amidst provocative challenges,” Atiku said.
He further urged the newly elected local government chairmen to prioritize the welfare of the people, cautioning them against the dangers of political ambition and tyranny. “As I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected local government leaders, I urge them to wear the welfare of the people as their foremost badge of honor and shun tyranny and delusional ambition in their political endeavors,” Atiku advised.
A Victory for the People
Atiku concluded his statement by emphasizing that the real winners of the election are the people of Rivers State. He pointed out that their right to choose their leaders had been preserved and that their determination to protect democracy had triumphed over any attempts to undermine the process. “In the grand tapestry of this election, it is ultimately the people who emerge victorious, their sacred right to choose their leaders firmly upheld within the framework of our democratic process,” Atiku noted.
The election results are being celebrated by many in Rivers State as a significant step toward greater political autonomy and a rejection of the influence of political godfathers. The outcome is also viewed as a boost for Governor Fubara’s administration, which has been working to assert its independence in the face of opposition from Wike’s faction.
Social Media Reactions:
- “Governor Fubara is proving himself a leader who truly respects the people’s will. This is a victory for democracy in Rivers State!” – Amaka, @AmakaSpeaks
- “Atiku is right, the people of Rivers have spoken, and godfatherism is no longer welcome here!” – Kunle, @KunleVotes
- “What a powerful message from Atiku! Proud of the people of Rivers for standing up for themselves.” – Chinedu, @ChineduComments
- “Atiku and Fubara have shown that democracy still thrives in Rivers State. This is the change we need!” – Titi, @TitiForNigeria
- “Wike’s influence is fading. This election shows the people are ready for a new chapter.” – Seyi, @SeyiPolitical
- “Atiku’s praise for Fubara is well-deserved. Standing up to political intimidation is not easy.” – Zainab, @ZainabVotes
- “The people of Rivers have rejected godfathers, and that’s a win for democracy.” – Funke, @FunkeUpdates
- “Congrats to the new local government leaders! Now, it’s time to focus on the welfare of the people.” – Ifeanyi, @IfeanyiSpeaks
- “This election is a lesson to all politicians: the power belongs to the people.” – Ahmed, @AhmedReports
- “So proud of Rivers State for standing firm against political oppression.” – David, @DavidForChange.
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