ABUJA, Nigeria – Former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has called the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
In a statement shared on his official X handle on Friday, October 4, 2024, Atiku stressed on the significance of the elections, underscoring their potential to strengthen local governance and reaffirm the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy.
“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 wrote.
He added that these elections provide a unique opportunity to uphold the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy, calling it a critical step toward reinforcing the principles upon which Nigeria’s republic was founded.
“These elections present an opportunity to uphold the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy, breathing life into the foundational principles of our republic,” he added.
Atiku also highlighted that the significance of the elections transcends local politics, marking them as an essential test of constitutionalism and the rule of law.
“Undoubtedly, this election resounds as a powerful affirmation of constitutionalism and the rule of law, a cause that should rally the support of all true champions of democracy,” he noted.
The former vice president commended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his leadership in ensuring that the local government elections proceed as planned.
“I commend the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, for his courageous leadership in ensuring local government elections are held in Rivers State,” Atiku stated.
He called on the residents of Rivers State to participate peacefully in the election, urging them to exercise their civic duty responsibly.
“I encourage every resident to embrace their civic duty with peace and purpose as they cast their votes, selecting those who will lead at the grassroots level,” Atiku remarked.
Atiku concluded by reiterating the sanctity of the democratic process and its empowering nature.
“It is my unwavering conviction that the democratic process is sacred, and through it, the people must be empowered to shape their future by choosing their leaders in every local community,” he said.
The Rivers State local government elections are widely regarded as a significant moment for the state and Nigeria as a whole, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s emphasis on local government autonomy.
Many view the elections as essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensuring effective governance at the grassroots level.
