By Osaigbovo Okungbowa
Introduction
In a dramatic turn of events, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a stern warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) over alleged attempts to disrupt the political stability of Rivers State. The PDP’s statement follows a “provocative” press conference by the APC’s Caretaker Chairman in Rivers State, Tony Okocha, who claimed that the APC could overturn the results of the governorship election that brought Governor Siminalayi Fubara to power.
PDP’s Response to APC’s Allegations
The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, responded to Okocha’s remarks, condemning them as reckless and a direct threat to the democratic order in Rivers State. Ologunagba accused the APC of plotting to instigate a crisis, forcefully overthrow a democratically elected government, and impose an undemocratic regime in violation of the Nigerian Constitution.
“The attention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to yet another hallucinating press conference by the Rivers State Caretaker Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tony Okocha, wherein he again fantasized that the WILL of the people of Rivers State as expressed in the governorship election which produced Governor Siminalayi Fubara can be upturned by the imagination of the APC,” Ologunagba stated.
Condemnation of Okocha’s “War” Statement
The PDP highlighted Okocha’s use of the word “war” in his statement, interpreting it as an indication of the APC’s malicious intentions. The PDP insisted that any attempts by the APC to incite violence and unrest in Rivers State would be firmly resisted by the people and the PDP administration.
“The use of the word ‘war’ by Mr. Okocha in his thoughtless statement clearly shows an evil intention which has been firmly resisted and will continue to be resisted by the people of Rivers State,” Ologunagba added.
Call for Federal Government and International Intervention
The PDP called on the Federal Government and the national leadership of the APC to urgently address Okocha’s destabilizing rhetoric. The party also urged the Inspector General of Police to hold Okocha accountable for his inflammatory remarks, which they argue pose a significant threat to democracy and peace in Rivers State.
“Our Party demands that the Inspector General of Police immediately invite the Rivers State APC Caretaker Chairman and hold him personally liable for his utterances which constitute a clear and present danger to the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria and to peace and tranquility in Rivers State,” Ologunagba demanded.
Additionally, the PDP appealed to the international community to take note of Okocha’s provocative statements, warning that his actions could jeopardize the overall security of Nigeria.
Reaffirmation of PDP’s Dominance in Rivers State
Reiterating the PDP’s stronghold in Rivers State, Ologunagba assured that the party and the people would continue to support Governor Fubara’s administration. He encouraged the residents of Rivers State to remain calm and steadfast in their support for the PDP, confident that the APC’s efforts to undermine the will of the people would ultimately fail.
“Rivers State is a stronghold of the PDP, and the people are solidly behind the Government of the PDP in the State,” Ologunagba asserted. “The PDP charges the people of Rivers State to remain calm and continue to work together in their solidarity with the PDP administration in the delivery of democracy dividends in the State.”
Background and Context
The PDP’s statement comes in the wake of heightened political tensions in Rivers State. The governorship election, which saw Governor Siminalayi Fubara emerge victorious, has been a point of contention, with the APC alleging irregularities and refusing to accept the results. The PDP, however, maintains that the election was free, fair, and reflective of the will of the people.
This latest development is part of a broader political struggle between the PDP and APC in Rivers State, a region known for its strategic economic importance and vibrant political landscape. The PDP’s dominance in the state has been challenged by the APC, leading to a series of confrontations and legal battles.
The APC’s Position
In his controversial press conference, Tony Okocha claimed that the APC had substantial grounds to challenge the legitimacy of the governorship election. He accused the PDP of electoral malpractices and suggested that the APC had the support needed to overturn the results. Okocha’s remarks were seen as an attempt to rally APC supporters and discredit the PDP’s governance in Rivers State.
Okocha’s statements have been met with criticism not only from the PDP but also from civil society groups and political analysts who warn that such rhetoric could incite violence and destabilize the region.
Potential Impact on Rivers State
The escalating political rhetoric and accusations between the PDP and APC have raised concerns about potential unrest in Rivers State. The region, already grappling with various socio-economic challenges, cannot afford a political crisis that could disrupt governance and development.
Political analysts suggest that the Federal Government must intervene to mediate between the parties and ensure that the political conflict does not escalate into violence. The role of security agencies, particularly the police, will be crucial in maintaining law and order during this period of heightened tensions.
Conclusion
The PDP’s press statement serves as a stark warning to the APC to desist from actions and rhetoric that could destabilize Rivers State. The call for federal and international intervention underscores the seriousness with which the PDP views the situation.
As Rivers State navigates this challenging political landscape, the commitment of both parties to peaceful and democratic processes will be essential. The people of Rivers State, having expressed their will through the ballot, deserve a stable and effective government focused on delivering development and prosperity.
The PDP’s reaffirmation of its stronghold in Rivers State and the backing of Governor Fubara’s administration highlights the party’s confidence in its governance and the support it enjoys from the people. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the political climate in Rivers State will stabilize or if further confrontations will ensue.
Osaigbovo Okungbowa is Atlantic Post Senior Political Correspondent.
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