The All Progressives Congress (APC) has affirmed that the former Minister of Transportation, Mr. Chibuike Amaechi, continues to be a significant force in politics and remains the leader of the party in Rivers State, despite the recent political landscape. This declaration was made during a flag distribution ceremony for candidates in the upcoming local government elections, scheduled for October 5th, 2024.
The party stated that Amaechi is politically active in Rivers and has been doing his best to support candidates for the upcoming Local Government election. His commitment to the party’s agenda was highlighted during the event, showcasing the party's solidarity and readiness for the electoral process.
While distributing flags to standard bearers in 21 local government areas of the state, Chief Emeka Beke, the Chairman of the party in the state, expressed that Amaechi's recent silence regarding political developments should not overshadow his influence and dedication to the party's cause. He reassured attendees that Amaechi is fully aware of the candidates being fielded for the LGA polls and is actively supporting them. Beke stated: “Amaechi remains the leader of APC in Rivers State. There is no way you will write the history of politics in the state, especially APC, that you will not write one full book on Amaechi.”
Beke further emphasized that despite any silence, Amaechi remains strong in politics and continues to be a valued member of the APC. His support for the party's candidates is unwavering, as he believes that a united front is crucial for their success in the elections.
Moreover, Beke confirmed that the local government elections will proceed as scheduled, noting that there is already a court judgment in Port Harcourt by Justice I. Igwe, which has paved the way for the election. He addressed concerns regarding the legal landscape surrounding the elections, stating: “There is a judgement of court before that their Abuja judgement. I don’t know the reason they want to drag the state in the mud. They should stop deceiving their supporters. Election is going to take place on Saturday and anyone who creates problems will carry it on his head.”
Beke reassured supporters that there is no tension in the state regarding the elections, asserting that the people of Rivers are resilient and capable of overcoming any challenges posed by opposition groups. He affirmed the APC's strong presence in Rivers State and its active engagement at the unit, ward, and LGA levels. He remarked, “APC is a party well established in Rivers State. We had started consultation at the unit, wards and LGA levels. What we are doing today is just formality. You can see that only APC and one other party have flagged off their campaign in the state. APC is stronger in Rivers State.”
During the flag handover ceremony, Beke also emphasized that all flag bearers have undergone screening by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) and are qualified to contest in the Saturday polls. He called upon security agencies to be vigilant and proactive in preventing any potential disruptions to the electoral process, expressing confidence in RSIEC's commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and credible election. He stated, “These candidates have been screened by RSIEC. They are qualified to stand for the election. Some people think that the election will not hold; they are in their wide dream.”
In closing, Beke urged the security forces to take action against anyone intending to disrupt the peaceful election process, highlighting the importance of maintaining order in Rivers State, which has faced significant challenges in the past. He noted, “Rivers State has been a theater of war under former governor, Wike. But the governor we have now is God-fearing. So anyone who causes problems, the security people will chase them to their hole.”