Rivers Governorship Election: I will Respect The Rule Of Law- Dakuku

The governorship candidate of the APC at the 2015 governorship election in Rivers State, Dakuku Adol Peterside has pledged to respect the ruling of the Supreme Court which upheld the election of Governor Nyesom Wike at the election.

In a statement signed by Peterside, he affirmed that the decision of the Supreme Court marked the culmination of the legal battle which he and the party instituted against the ruling party over the outcome of the election.

He however frowned at the decision of the court in ignoring the  earlier findings of the Rivers State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal which had both agreed that the conduct of the elections failed to comply substantially with the requirements of the Electoral Act.

“My associates and I are grateful to God for directing us to pursue justice in the courts rather than resort to self-help. We magnify our God for giving us the will and the support of Rivers people to maintain the legal battle. “

“The Supreme Court has differed from our position. Still, we thank God for giving us the stoicism to accept the verdict. Indeed, our God deserves praise for reminding us that as His children we should respect and honour even our earthly authorities.”

Peterside promised to work “creatively with Governor Wike” while at the same time providing a “virile opposition, serving as a mirror for the conscience of government, in the interest of Rivers people.”

Conversely, we will constructively express objection to policies and actions we consider inimical to the overall interest of Rivers people. “It is our hope that Governor Wike and his team will appreciate the suggestions and proposals that would be made in the interest of Rivers people. If we sometimes sound strident, he should pay heed to the message of passionate and zealous Rivers people rather than dismiss the messenger.”