89 Political Parties in Rivers Endorse Wike for Second Term

Eighty-nine registered political parties have endorsed the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, for a second term, saying they are satisfied with his performance in his first tenure.

But the governorship candidate of Accord Party (AP) in the state, Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, has dedicated his campaigns with a pledge to bring healing, peace and progress to the state if voted for in the gubernatorial election.

Chairmen of the 89 political parties under the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) announced the endorsement during a solidarity visit to the Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Speaking during the visit, Chairman of Rivers State IPAC, Sir Precious Baridoo, announced that IPAC has recognised Wike as "the face of politics in Nigerian democracy.

"We have decided to adopt Wike as our sole candidate for his outstanding projects delivery which has earned him several awards.

"Eighty per cent of our active members of IPAC in the state are ready to work with you. You have done well. You are a leader in whom we are well pleased. Our involvement in the forthcoming gubernatorial election on March 2, 2019, will not only be total, but all inclusive to ensure your victory.”

He stated that the state IPAC would resist any gang up by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to manipulate or postpone the polls.

Baridoo declared that Rivers State IPAC would campaign for Wike and also defend their votes during the elections.

He noted that the achievements of the state governor are worthy to be replicated in his second term because the state deserves the best.

While responding, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, thanked the 89 political parties for their endorsement, and noted that he would always place the interest of the state above other considerations.

According to him, "I appreciate this resounding endorsement and solidarity. What is important is the interest of Rivers State. It is important that we have agreed to work together for the good of the state. It is not easy for this number to agree to endorse our good work."

Wike called on all political parties in the state to remain vigilant as former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has confirmed the plot to rig elections.

He said: "We must be vigilant. You heard what Obasanjo said. APC cannot deny that Obasanjo was one of the pillars that brought them into office. Obasanjo cannot see evil at his age and keep quiet.”

The governor alleged the present INEC is not in any position to conduct credible polls because they take directives from the APC federal government.

Meanwhile, while campaigning at St. Augustine's Anglican Church, Abonnema in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, Accord Party governorship candidate, Lulu-Briggs, pledge to bring healing, peace and progress to Rivers state when he becomes governor after the March 2, gubernatorial election.

Lulu-Briggs, who was accompanied to the campaign by other candidates of the party for the different elective positions and chieftains of the party, highlighted the equality of all men before God, irrespective of ethnicity, nationality and social status, and promised that his leadership would ensure equality and bring hope to every Rivers man, woman and child.