Rivers Group Calls For Transparency In Upcoming LGA Polls
The Rivers Peace Initiative has issued a statement urging calm and transparency as the state prepares for local government elections.
In a press release signed by Convener Obinna Ebogidi, the group acknowledged concerns about the legality and timelines of the elections but emphasized the need for democratic governance at the grassroots level.
According to the group, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) board was nominated by the President and screened by the National Assembly, affirming their legal standing and public mandate.
The election timetable, the group noted, is a continuation of an earlier schedule paused during the state of emergency, with RSIEC releasing detailed timelines and public notices.
The Rivers Peace Initiative made several appeals to stakeholders, including RSIEC, civil society groups, political stakeholders, and citizens.
The group urged RSIEC to engage the public openly, make the voter register public, and build trust through transparency and timely communication.
Civil society groups were encouraged to raise civic conversations above antagonism, engage constructively, and hold the process accountable.
Political stakeholders were advised to prioritize healing and rebuilding, avoiding the use of civil society for personal interests.
To citizens, the group emphasized the importance of participating in the electoral process, saying, “Your vote is your voice. No process is perfect, but staying away will only empower chaos. Come out, vote peacefully, and protect the future of your community.”
The Rivers Peace Initiative emphasized the need for truth, balance, and collective progress, urging Rivers State to prioritize democratic dividends and avoid normalizing political instability.
“This is the time for courage, not combat. The time for healing, not hostility. The time for leadership, not loudness. Let us begin again. Rivers State deserves that chance.”
Rivers Group Calls For Transparency In Upcoming LGA Polls is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
