PDP To Muscle LG Election Process, APC Direct Aspirants In Civil Service, Appointees To Resign

By Fortune Erim

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has expressed concerns over the upcoming local government elections, raising issues about the fairness of the process. 

In a press release signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Mike Ojisi, the PDP announced its decision to participate in the elections while voicing apprehensions about the conduct of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Following consultations with key stakeholders, the PDP’s State Working Committee revealed its three-point resolution – the party will participate in the LG election, will seek the reopening of the process for the collection of forms and nominations, and plans to challenge the electoral process, citing fears that it is skewed in favor of the ruling APC government.

Despite its concerns, the opposition party has urged its members to remain steadfast and contest the elections with all seriousness. The party emphasized that it will explore legitimate avenues to address any grievances that arise from the process.

The press release comes amidst increasing political tension in the state, as parties prepare for the October 26, 2024, local government polls announced by Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC). PDP’s call for fairness and transparency in the electoral process sets the stage for what could be a contentious political contest between the state’s major political players.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed its intention to fully participate in the upcoming elections in October following the notice of election/release of timetable by the CROSIEC.

APC said aspirants who are public servants or political appointees should resign one month before the election.

APC said civil servants and party executives who wish to run for chairmanship or councillorships must resign and provide a copy of the resignation letter acknowledging the State Legal Adviser’s office at the party’s State Secretariat Headquarters.

According to the party, based on the values of equity, justice, and fairness, candidates for chairmanship and councillorship will be chosen by consensus. The party will release its guidelines, schedule of activities, and timetable in due course.

Aspirants are advised to start consulting pertinent parties regarding the election but only the local government area caucus led by the chapter chairmen in their respective local government areas.

All party officials, including ward, LGA, state, and zonal executives, as well as candidates and interested parties, are urged to be ready for emergency meetings to adhere to the “strict election schedule issued by CROSIEC.”