Judex Okoro, Calabar
The former Vice President and presidential candidate of PDP in the February 16 election has cautioned the military to stay off the electioneering processes.
Atiku, who handed down the warning during a presidential rally held at U J Esuene Stadium, Calabar on Friday said, the military is not supposed to be involved in election matters apart from the police who are supposed to play a minimal role in election time.
He frowned at the threats and statements form the military hierarchy on the election as well as moves to clamp down on the opposition for merely engaging in its civic duties.
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He said: “This election is about the future of our country. We must therefore, protect our votes and ensure that they count. And if I am given the mandate I will work with your governor to run a transparent administration.
“I am eternally grateful to the people of Cross River because the first job I had was given to me by an indigene of the state. So, I urge you to vote for me and also Prof Ben Ayade as we shall not disappoint you.”
Also speaking, the National Chairman of PDP, Mr Uche Secondus, warned that any attempt to rig the election would spell doom for the country as all national and international polls have given victory to Atiku in the upcoming election.
He said: “The police and the military should not take sides, else it would be terrible for the country. Besides, our state institutions should not be damaged because of one man. We have the best candidate who have been tried and tasted both in the private and public sectors. So, he is well-placed to make the country work again.”