Following speculations that the outcome of the rerun elections in Etche and Omuma Local Government Areas in Rivers State on February 25, 2017 that saw widespread violence and attack on electoral officers and electorate, may witness another round of legal tussle, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency , Chief Ogbonna Nwuke, has broken the ice.
At a media chat with Journalists in Port Harcourt, he disclosed that he would not challenge the outcome of the election despite irregularities and violence, stressing that the interest of his constituents override his.
Nwuke reiterated that challenging the outcome may leave the people of the constituency without representation longer than the two years that had already been wasted.
His words: “We are a responsible and purposeful party, and our foundation is built on the finest of democratic principles. I cannot speak for the party. So, it is difficult for me to say what the party is up to. But I can speak at least for myself.
“The Etche people haven’t had any representation as a result of the prolonged tussle for power. Given that we have barely two years to go, I believe they should not be shut out from having a representation at the national level.
“Besides, power belongs to God. He gives it to whosoever he wishes. We fought hard. There were anomalies as well but I accept the verdict of God.
“Everything happens as God wills. He has acted in my view. It doesn’t matter now whether the action of INEC was proper, whether Wike had a right under our laws to ambush returning officers at the INEC office in Port Harcourt. Like I said earlier, it must be that God has spoken. I will not be one to challenge Him.
You will recall that over 135 thugs alongside four Chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including the party’s spokesman, Samuel Nwanosike were arrested in Etche during the rerun election. Drugs and dangerous weapons were allegedly recovered from the political thugs.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow Africa Update Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!