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2027: Don’t repeat 2015 mistake, vote wisely, Eze urges Rivers electorate

2027: Don’t repeat 2015 mistake, vote wisely, Eze urges Rivers electorate

From Vanguard · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • An opposition figure urges Rivers State voters to choose wisely in the 2027 governorship election, warning against repeating 2015 mistakes.
  • He criticizes the notion of political godfatherism, stating no individual can impose a governor on the state.
  • The call emphasizes the need for equity and inclusiveness, highlighting the Ogoni ethnic group's lack of representation in top state positions.

Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has implored the electorate in Rivers State to exercise caution and discernment in the upcoming 2027 governorship election. He cautioned against repeating what he described as the "mistakes of the 2015 polls," asserting that the state's future hinges on the choices made at the ballot box.

Eze directly addressed comments attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, regarding his influence over the selection of the next governor. "No individual, regardless of political influence, owns Rivers State," Eze declared. He asserted that the era of "political godfatherism" must end and any attempt to impose a governor would be undemocratic and should be rejected through lawful means.

No individual, regardless of political influence, owns Rivers State. The era of political godfatherism must come to an end. Any attempt to impose a governor on Rivers people is undemocratic and should be rejected through lawful democratic means.

— Chief Eze Chukwuemeka EzeCriticizing the concept of political godfatherism and asserting the people's right to choose their governor.

He further argued for a more equitable power-sharing arrangement, noting that since Nigeria's return to democracy in 1999, the governorship has primarily resided within the "upland axis." Eze expressed confidence in the ADC's candidate, Dr. Gabriel Pidomson, emphasizing his Ogoni heritage. Pidomson's potential candidacy is significant, as the Ogoni ethnic group has historically been excluded from top leadership positions, including governor, deputy governor, chief judge, and speaker of the state assembly. Eze believes supporting Pidomson would foster inclusion, unity, and peaceful coexistence.

The people now know better. The 2027 election presents another opportunity to restore hope, rebuild institutions and return Rivers State to the path of progress.

— Chief Eze Chukwuemeka EzeExpressing optimism about the electorate's ability to make informed choices in the upcoming election.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Vanguard. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.