The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned that no individual can impose the next governor of the state on the people, saying any attempt to achieve such through election rigging would be fiercely resisted.
The party’s Publicity Secretary and spokesperson, Barr. Chizy Enyi, gave the warning in a statement, stressing that Rivers State does not belong to any individual and that only the people have the constitutional right to determine the state’s political future in the 2027 general election.
According to the ADC, Rivers people deserve “a contest of ideas, competence, integrity and vision—not one driven by the dictates of self-appointed kingmakers.”
The party also urged residents not to be intimidated by propaganda or political grandstanding, insisting that the electorate alone has the power to decide the future of the state through the ballot box.
Parts of the statement read: “Our attention has been drawn to the disturbing narrative being promoted in certain political quarters that the destiny of Rivers State can be dictated by the preferences of one individual. Such a notion is not only misleading but fundamentally inconsistent with the principles of democracy.
“Let it be stated without ambiguity: Rivers State is not the private estate of any political figure or individual. No one person, regardless of status, influence or past accomplishments, possesses the power to determine who becomes the next Governor of Rivers State.
“That sacred responsibility belongs exclusively to the people of Rivers State, who exercise their constitutional right through free, fair and credible elections. We wish to make it emphatically clear that the era of imposing a governor on Rivers people is gone, particularly with the emergence and rapidly growing popularity of the ADC in Rivers State.
“Those whose stock-in-trade is election rigging should know that their game is over because Rivers people will fiercely resist any attempt to subvert the collective will of the electorate.
“Those creating the impression that the governorship of Rivers State is a personal gift to be bestowed by a political godfather do a grave disservice to our democracy.”
The party added: “Such a mindset undermines the sovereignty of the electorate, insults the intelligence of Rivers people and diminishes the sacrifices made by countless Nigerians in the struggle for democratic governance.
“As the political atmosphere gradually builds toward the 2027 general elections, we call on all political stakeholders to abandon the politics of entitlement, intimidation and personality cults.
“Every eligible voter should understand that their vote carries equal value and that no declaration, endorsement or political arrangement can replace the collective will of the electorate. The ballot—not the voice of any individual—will determine who occupies the Brick House.
“Our party remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting the democratic rights of Rivers people. We shall continue to stand for transparent elections, accountable leadership and a government that derives its legitimacy solely from the freely expressed will of the people.
“We therefore remind all political actors that power belongs to the people, not to political godfathers, vested interests or powerful individuals.”
