Dr. Chukwudi Dimkpa, Rivers State ADC Chairman
The Rivers State Chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has faulted the claim by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that he would personally choose the next governor of the state after Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
This clarification was made by the Rivers State ADC Chairman, Dr. Chukwudi Dimkpa in a chat with Vanguard Newspaper in Port harcourt, recently.
According to Dr. Dimkpa, Rivers State is not a personal estate and any suggestion that an individual would “choose” the next governor reinforces the need for a credible alternative political platform.
Dimkpa further added that the ADC is now well positioned to provide that alternative, stressing that the governorship is not an appointment but a mandate of the people.
While noting clearly that the ADC is not built around one individual or powerful interests, but on internal democracy, transparency and competence, Dr. Dimkpa emphasized that the ADC represents a departure from politics of imposition to politics of inclusion.
“Rivers peoples are politically aware, sophisticated, and ready to assert their will. No single individual regardless of influence, can override the collective will”, he said.
Such statements of imposition, according to him, only confirm that the time for a new political direction has come.
On zoning, Dimkpa said the party recognizes the historical sensitivities around the arrangement in Rivers State, including the riverine–upland balance aimed at promoting inclusion and stability, even as he stressed that fairness, equity, and competence must go hand in hand.
“We are committed to a transparent and consultative process that engages stakeholders across all senatorial districts and political blocs,” he said, adding that the party’s goal is to produce a candidate who reflects the diversity of Rivers State, has the competence to govern effectively, and enjoys broad-based acceptance across all communities.
Original story by Vanguard Newspaper