Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Rivers State governorship, has called on women across the state to reject vote-buying in the upcoming 2027 election. He made this appeal while addressing NDC women leaders and their deputies from the 23 local government areas. Lulu-Briggs emphasized the importance of not exchanging votes for money, likening it to a biblical account where Esau sold his birthright for a meal.
Lulu-Briggs pointed out that the money offered to voters during elections is often their own public resources being returned to them as inducement. He stated that there is no way anyone can give them what already belongs to them. The NDC candidate urged the women to focus on opportunities that could improve their livelihoods and those of their children, rather than short-term inducements.
Lulu-Briggs outlined his proposed "Reset Government" plan, which aims to reduce dependence on political connections for economic opportunities by improving access to jobs, finance, markets, and skills development. He emphasized that the NDC has set a target to grow Rivers State's economy from $20 billion to $200 billion within 15 years. This, he believes, can be achieved by working together with the women, whose businesses, farms, fisheries, and market activities significantly contribute to the state's economic life.
The NDC candidate stressed that women play a crucial role in the state's economy and that their contributions cannot be overlooked. He mentioned that small businesses run by women, farms, fisheries, and markets they sustain are essential to the state's economic growth. Lulu-Briggs also promised skills training linked to employment, improved access to finance and markets, and greater attention to clean water, environmental protection, and community safety.
Lulu-Briggs assured that his administration would be judged by tangible results, not promises. He described his commitment as a covenant to be judged by evidence, by what the women can see change in their own homes and businesses. He urged the women to take the "Reset Rivers State" message to communities across the state, mobilize voters, and protect their votes.
The NDC candidate's call to action emphasizes the need for a more sustainable and equitable approach to economic development in Rivers State. By focusing on improving access to jobs, finance, and markets, Lulu-Briggs aims to create a more stable and prosperous future for the state's residents. His plan also highlights the importance of women's empowerment and participation in the state's economic growth.
Ultimately, Lulu-Briggs' message to the women of Rivers State is one of hope and empowerment. He encourages them to look beyond short-term gains and to work towards a brighter future for themselves and their children. By rejecting vote-buying and focusing on sustainable economic development, Lulu-Briggs believes that Rivers State can achieve great things and become a model for other states to follow.
Key points
- NDC's Rivers State governorship candidate, Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, urges women to reject vote-buying ahead of the 2027 election.
