Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has publicly condemned the recent local government elections in Rivers State, calling the process a “travesty to the very notion of elective democracy.”
In a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Atiku criticized what he described as the “occupation government” in Rivers State, accusing it of conducting a “shameful and shambolic” election process.
“It is clear that the ruling APC party is not leaving anyone in doubt that it is prepared to throw caution to the wind in order to achieve an inordinate political advantage,” he wrote.
Atiku called on well-meaning Nigerians, the international community, and friends of Nigeria to pay close attention to the “dangerous curve” that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is taking the country.
He urged all opposition parties in Rivers State to reject the local government elections, arguing that the administration behind the polls lacks constitutional legitimacy.
“The occupation government that conducted the exercise is extraneous to our laws, with absolutely no legitimacy to undertake such a crucial and sensitive assignment,” he added.
Concluding his statement, Atiku expressed solidarity with the people of Rivers State, labeling them “victims of political brigandry” and asserting that a “power cabal” is determined to overturn their democratic rights at all costs.