From TONY JOHN, Port Harcourt
People’s Democratic Party (PDP), in Rivers State, said it has obeyed the necessary laws by paying the sum of N95 million to use public facilities for its campaigns in the state.
The payment was in compliance with the precautionary requirement of N5 million for venue usage stipulated by Executive Order 21 issued last year by the State government.
A statement issued by the Chairman of the Publicity and Communications Committee of the Consolidation of the New Rivers Vision Campaign Council, Ogbonna Nwuke, disclosed that PDP was merely living by example and wished other political parties to follow suit.
Nwuke, in the statement, said the party had received an official approval from the office of the Commissioner for Education, Professor Chinedum Mbom, approving it to use facilities owned by the State.
It would be recalled that Executive Order 21 prescribes the payment of N5 million by political parties as precautionary fees for the use of facilities such as schools among others.
Part of the letter conveyed to the PDP in Rivers State read: “I hereby acknowledge receipt of your deposit of the total sum of N95 million only into the State Government account, being the required precautionary deposit for the use of your indicated public schools’ facilities in Rivers State.
‘Sir, sequel to your compliance with the directive as contained in our letter dated 6th December, 2022, I hereby convey to you, my approval of your request for the use of State-owned schools’ facilities as indicated in the annexure to your application.”
The PDP noted that by the notice received which shows proof of its compliance with the dictates of Executive Order 21, it was ready to commence open air campaigns.
Nwuke continued: “Prior to this time, we have publicly indicated as a responsible political party that the PDP shall comply with the dictates of Executive Order 21. Now, that we have received appropriate authorization, following full compliance with the order, we are prepared to commence open air campaigns in Rivers State.
“Similarly, we attach a photocopy of the letter of approval to show proof that the PDP is not above the law. While thanking Rivers people for their undying support for our great party, we assure them that our candidates will fulfill promises made to the electorate.
“Governor Nyesom Wike has met, and gone ahead to surpass promises made to the people to pursue a clear vision that is transforming the State into the home of infrastructure.
“Siminialayi Fubara and all our candidates will consolidate on the dividends of democracy that are being delivered by the PDP. This is our pledge to the masses.”
