The People’s Democratic Party, PDP presidential candidate in Saturday’s election, Atiku Abubakar, has raised an alarm over alleged plans by some elements in the All Progressives Congress, APC to foment trouble in some states to force the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to postpone presidential election.
A statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the PDP presidential candidate warned that failure to hold elections on the same day across the country would be an invitation to rigging.
Atiku also commended the Nigeria Police Force for arresting and arraigning APC federal lawmaker in Rivers State, Hon. Ephraim Nwuzi, who was caught on video discussing plans to attack electoral officials in the state. He also asked the police to pay close attention to states like Ebonyi, Cross River, and Imo states where the governors are bent on doing anything possible to ensure that Tinubu gets the 25 percent requirement.
“They are doing this to impress their master and godfather, Bola Tinubu, and we hope the international observers are seeing this. We commend the police for summoning those behind the threats against non-indigenes. But more efforts must be channelled towards arresting more of such bigots,” Atiku stated.
He called on INEC to ensure free and fair elections and to resist any attempt to postpone or manipulate the electoral process. Atiku also asked all Nigerians to stand up for their rights and ensure that no one is allowed to trample upon the rights of others.
Atiku’s alarm comes as the country prepares for a crucial presidential election on Saturday, February 25. The PDP has expressed fear that the APC, led by former Lagos State governor and National leader, Bola Tinubu, is plotting to manipulate the results of the election. This has raised concerns among the electorate, who fear that their votes at the polls may not count.
Atiku’s statement serves as a reminder of the need for all Nigerians to be vigilant and to ensure that their votes are counted on Saturday. Nigerians must be on the lookout for any activity that could potentially compromise the electoral process and should report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities
