Dr. Gabriel Pidomson, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Rivers State governorship, has stated that the 2027 election will be a decisive opportunity for voters to determine who governs the state. According to Pidomson, the election should be determined by the wishes of Rivers voters rather than political influence or alliances. He emphasized that Rivers State belongs to its citizens and not to any individual or political group.
Pidomson made these remarks while speaking on his campaign preparations and the political contest ahead. He described the 2027 election as a contest between Rivers people and others, stressing that Rivers State is a common patrimony that should be governed in the interest of its citizens. The ADC candidate expressed confidence in building broad support across the state, saying his party is focused on the welfare and development of Rivers State.
On the emerging Rainbow Coalition, Pidomson expressed confidence that his party would eclipse them in the election. He claimed that consultations undertaken by his campaign across the state had shown a desire among voters for a government that would be responsive and responsible. Pidomson's 10-point policy agenda is focused on addressing the needs of Rivers State citizens.
Pidomson revealed that his campaign is preparing structures to monitor the electoral process, ensuring that his agents would be deployed across polling units to monitor voting and collation. He urged voters to remain at their polling units until results were announced, adding that this would prevent electoral malpractices. The ADC candidate also called on security agencies to ensure that political parties and citizens exercise their constitutional rights during the electioneering period.
The ADC candidate urged the Inspector-General of Police, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, the Department of State Services, and other relevant agencies to investigate reports of restrictions on political activities and alleged disruptions of ADC programmes. He described such actions as unlawful, unconstitutional, and barbaric. Pidomson emphasized that citizens have the right to participate in political activities without restrictions.
Pidomson addressed reports of opposition to his candidacy by some Ogoni leaders, stating that he believes voters would make their own choices at the polls. He described the opposing leaders as a handful of individuals who have benefited from the current system, adding that they cannot sway the position or choice of the people. The ADC candidate maintained that his party has built support across ethnic and political lines in the state.
Finally, Pidomson urged voters to accept campaign inducements if offered but vote according to their conscience. He advised voters to collect any offered money but ultimately vote for the ADC. The candidate expressed confidence in his chances, stating that he has been preparing for the governorship since 2014.
Key points
- The 2027 election will be a decisive opportunity for Rivers voters to determine who governs the state.
- Pidomson expressed confidence in building broad support across the state for the ADC.
- The ADC candidate urged voters to remain at their polling units until results were announced to prevent electoral malpractices.
