PDP Condemns APC’s Alleged Attempted Takeover of Rivers State

PDP accuses APC of resorting to unconstitutional means to seize control of Rivers State, calls for restraint

The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly denounced what it describes as a disturbing attempt by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to forcefully take over Rivers State.

In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP expressed grave concerns over recent remarks made by the APC Chairman in Rivers State, Mr Tony Okocha.

According to the PDP, Mr Okocha’s directive to initiate impeachment proceedings against the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, is both reckless and unconstitutional. The PDP accuses the APC of resorting to violence, coercion, and intimidation in a bid to undermine the will of the people and seize control of the state.

Furthermore, the PDP points out that the individuals directed by the Rivers State APC Chairman to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara are not legally recognized members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Citing Section 109 (1) (g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the PDP argues that these individuals have lost their seats and privileges upon defection from the PDP, the party platform under which they were elected.

The PDP emphasizes that such actions by the APC constitute a blatant violation of the Nigerian Constitution, specifically, Section 1 sub-section 2, which prohibits any person or group from taking charge of the government except in line with the stipulations of the Nigerian Constitution.

In response to these developments, the PDP calls on the Inspector General of Police to take note of the subversive utterances made by the APC Chairman in Rivers State, warning that they could potentially incite crisis and disrupt the democratic order in the country.

The PDP reassures the people of Rivers State of its unwavering commitment to their interests and urges them to resist the APC’s alleged attempts to destabilize the state. Finally, the PDP expresses gratitude to the people of Rivers State for their continued support and solidarity.