The chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Success Jack, has vowed that any attempt to manipulate the outcome of the 2027 presidential election in the state will be resisted. Jack made this statement in response to recent comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Wike had claimed that he and other members of the defunct G-5 Governors stopped the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from winning Rivers State in 2023.

Jack said the party is not bothered by Wike's comment ahead of the 2027 election, insisting that the electoral process is no longer the same as it was in 2023. According to him, it would be impossible for anyone to write election results, as voters would monitor their ballots and ensure that the results are transmitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal from the polling units. Jack expressed confidence in the new electoral system.

The NDC state chair explained that voters would police their ballots to ensure that results are transmitted at the polling units and then at the local government collation centres. He also stated that attempts to use security agencies to intimidate voters would not work. Jack expressed doubt that security agents would be able to intimidate voters or manipulate results.

Jack's statement comes as a response to Wike's claim that he and other governors had prevented Peter Obi from winning Rivers State in 2023. Wike's comment has sparked debate about the role of politicians in the electoral process. The 2027 presidential election is expected to be closely contested, with various parties vying for control.

The Rivers State chapter of the NDC has assured its members and supporters that it will work to ensure a free and fair election. Jack's statement reflects the party's commitment to transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The party is preparing for the election with a focus on mobilizing voters and monitoring the electoral process.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been working to improve the electoral process in Nigeria, including the introduction of new technologies to enhance transparency and accountability. The commission has also been engaging with various stakeholders, including political parties and civil society organizations, to ensure a smooth electoral process.

The NDC's stance on election manipulation reflects a broader concern about the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria. The party's commitment to resisting manipulation and ensuring a free and fair election is a key aspect of its platform. The 2027 presidential election will be an important test of Nigeria's democratic institutions.

Key points

  • NDC Rivers State chair vows to resist election manipulation
  • Wike claims he and other governors stopped Peter Obi from winning Rivers State in 2023
  • NDC confident in new electoral system, vows to monitor results transmission

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.