Former Vice President, Mr. Atiku Abubakar, has commended Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalai Hubala, for forcing through the local government elections scheduled for today (Saturday).
Mr. Atiku Abubakar said it takes Mr. Hubala’s courage to uphold and implement the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy.
In a statement released on Friday night, the former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called on the people of Rivers State to go to the polls and vote.
“Tomorrow (today, Saturday) local government elections in Rivers State will be a beacon of hope and bring new vitality to constitutional democracy at the heart of governance. These elections uphold the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy. It is an opportunity to breathe life into our nation’s fundamental principles.
“Make no mistake, this election resonates as a powerful affirmation of constitutionalism and the rule of law, a cause that should rally the support of all true defenders of democracy. It is a call to the people to resolutely defend the people’s right to choose their leaders freely and fairly.
“I commend Governor Siminalai Hubala for his courageous leadership in ensuring the conduct of local government elections in Rivers State. I also urge all residents to elect people to leadership roles at the grassroots level. We encourage you to exercise your civic duty with peace and purpose as you vote for your cause,” Atiku said.
The former vice president continued, “My firm belief is that the democratic process is sacred, through which people in every community must be empowered to elect leaders and shape their own future.” It’s a belief,” he added.
