Expressing readiness for the local government elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has indicated its preparedness.
Emphasizing that it will not endorse any unlawful actions intended to sabotage the election results, the main opposition party is cautious about potential traps set to nullify outcomes unfavored by the ruling government.
In a statement authorized by the PDP State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the party expressed support for a recent court order prohibiting the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWSIEC) from conducting the local government elections scheduled for September 21, 2024, pending a final verdict.
Touching on the significance of the court order, the party noted, “The Federal High Court’s restraining order, Abuja, is a positive development and a significant triumph for the people of Kwara State eagerly awaiting local government elections since 2019. It has thwarted a calculated scheme by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to catch the people off guard prior to the impending local government elections.”
Highlighting the Governor’s alleged tactics, the party criticized, “In a deliberate effort to entrap the populace, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, in collaboration with KWSIEC, knowingly flouted certain provisions of the Electoral Act. This preplanned strategy aimed to exploit any unfavorable election result for the Governor by instigating a legal challenge based on alleged non-compliance with electoral regulations.”
Reiterating the party’s swift response to counteract such schemes, it stated, “Our prompt action has foiled this devious plot, ensuring that the people’s aspirations are not shattered by the political maneuverings of Governor Abdulrahaman.”
Asserting their preparedness for the elections, the party mentioned, “We have proactively submitted candidates’ names and credentials for all the 16 LGA chairmanship and 193 councilorship positions to KWSIEC. Yet, we acknowledge the responsibility to shield our people from the potential political pitfalls orchestrated by Governor Abdulrazaq and his cohorts.”
Commenting on the Governor’s motives, the statement remarked, “Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq lacks genuine readiness for the local government elections, coerced into action by the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. His persistent pursuit of dubious methods to impose preferred candidates further exposes his intention to siphon funds earmarked for local government areas from federal revenue.”
Applauding the judicial intervention, the party concluded, “This restraining order serves as a testament to the PDP’s vigilance and commitment to safeguarding the democratic rights of the people in Kwara State.”
Issuing a call to all stakeholders, the Kwara PDP urged, “We urge all stakeholders to remain vigilant and guard against manipulative tactics hindering the effective management of resources allocated for the development of Local Government Councils, the closest government tier to the people.”