Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last election, has called on Labour Party lawmakers, both in the House of Representatives and Senate to vote against the emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State.
The former governor of Anambra State made the call in a statement obtained by News Band Newspaper on Thursday.
He urged them to stand as true defenders of justice and not to participate in or support any action, decision, or vote that compromises the integrity of Nigeria democracy, undermines the interests of the people of Rivers State, or contradicts the core values of fairness, equity, and transparency.
The statement reads, “My dear brothers and sisters,
“Members of the Labour Party in the National Assembly,
“Since your inauguration as Distinguished, and Honorable members of the National Assembly, I have refrained from interfering in your legislative affairs out of respect for your independence and to allow you to focus on alleviating the suffering of the Nigerian people.
“However, at this critical juncture — following 26 years of a deteriorating democratic process marked by disregard for educational qualifications for electoral positions, massive rigging, and now the unconstitutional removal of elected officeholders — I find it necessary to address you. These unconstitutional actions have far-reaching negative implications for our democracy and the will of the people.
“I urge you to stand as true defenders of justice. Do not participate in or support any action, decision, or vote that compromises the integrity of our democracy, undermines the interests of the people of Rivers State, or contradicts our core values of fairness, equity, and transparency.
“We must not allow ourselves to become instruments of injustice or contribute to the betrayal of the people’s mandate. At this moment, we must prioritize what is right over what is wrong or convenient, remaining steadfast in defending the well-being of the people of Rivers State.
“Together, let us stand firm in our resolve — because a new Nigeria is possible!”