Rivers State LG Election: A Day of Consensus Amid Party Divisions, Insights from Professor Lawrence Chukwu
By Precious Ahiakwo
The recent election in Rivers State has been hailed as a monumental moment for democracy, characterized by peace and widespread voter engagement. Professor Lawrence Chukwu, a respected academic and political figure in Rivers State, gave an in-depth analysis of the election’s significance, the underlying challenges within major political parties, and the unity that emerged in his community.
He granted this interview shortly after casting his vote at his polling unit in his hometown Woji Obio-Akpor LGA.
“A Necessary Election”: The Hope for Change in Rivers State
Professor Lawrence Chukwu started by emphasizing the importance of the election, describing it as “a very necessary election, a crucial one that redefines Rivers State.” The professor’s enthusiasm was evident as he spoke about the opportunity given to the people of Rivers State to participate in a fair electoral process without intimidation or disruption. He voiced his joy in having cast his vote and seeing many others do the same in an environment free from conflict. The absence of police intervention was notable, as he stated, “We don’t need the police. Everywhere is calm.”
Community Mobilization as the Key to Success
Speaking from his polling unit in Woji, Professor Lawrence Chukwu highlighted the success of community mobilization, which contributed to the impressive voter turnout. “The turnout in my constituency is massive,” he explained, underscoring the collective effort that ensured people came out to exercise their voting rights. According to him, this spirit of participation was widespread across other areas in Rivers State, signifying the community’s desire for progress. “This is a day we’ve been yearning for, and we’re happy that today has come,” Chukwu remarked, reiterating the significance of citizens coming together for the future of their state.
Factional Divides in Major Parties: Challenges and Solutions
Professor Lawrence Chukwu provided insight into the challenges plaguing the major political parties in Rivers State, particularly the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and his own party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). Both parties, according to him, had significant internal struggles. The PDP, for instance, proceeded with activities despite a court order that forbade them, creating turmoil within the party. The APC, on the other hand, faced a deep internal divide, with a substantial factional split between the majority supporting Emeka Beke and the minority faction recognized by the National Working Committee (NWC).
These internal disputes led to a strategic consensus among members in Professor Chukwu’s local government to support candidates from the Action People’s Party (APP). “We had a consensus to fill all our candidates in APP,” he explained, clarifying that despite being an APC member, he decided to vote for APP candidates due to the unity they represented under challenging circumstances. He expressed frustration with the party’s internal leadership, mentioning past issues where decisions were imposed on them by national figures, which influenced his decision to move forward with consensus candidates for this election.
A Community-Driven Political Movement
The consensus to support APP candidates was not driven by traditional party politics but rather by the will of the community. “It’s not a bad party; it’s about consensus for our people,” Professor Chukwu asserted. This unity, he explained, allowed the people to have a voice despite the internal conflicts that had previously paralyzed the major parties. By putting their weight behind APP candidates, the people of Woji and surrounding areas demonstrated the power of collective action and pragmatic decision-making, prioritizing the community’s needs over party allegiances.
A Governor for the People and a Fair Election
The peaceful and orderly conduct of the election also brought accolades for the state government. Professor Lawrence Chukwu praised the governor of Rivers State Siminilaye Fubara for creating an environment where citizens could vote freely without fear or intimidation. “The governor has given us, for the first time, the opportunity to come and vote for candidates of our choice,” he acknowledged, appreciating the conducive atmosphere that was present on election day. He described the governor as “a governor who cares for the people” and credited him for facilitating an environment where democracy could truly thrive.
The professor also highlighted how this election marked a departure from the past, where violence often marred voting days. “This is the first time we’re having an election without violence. The masses came out peacefully to vote for what they want,” he said. Chukwu sees this as a turning point for Rivers State, signifying that the state could move forward, free from the chains of fear and political tension.
Hope for the Future: Lessons from a Peaceful Election
Professor Lawrence Chukwu believes that the election is a signal of progress for Rivers