ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has paid N95 million for the use of public facilities in the State for its open-door campaign in line with Executive Order 21.
Recall that the Executive Order 21 prescribes the payment of N5million by political parties as precautionary fees for the use of public facilities such as schools for campaigns and rallies.
The party complied with the precautionary requirement of N5million per venue stipulated in Executive Order 21, by the State government.
Meanwhile, other political parties in the State, especially the All Progressives Congress (APC), have been kicking against the executive orders, describing them as unconstitutional.
In a statement by the Chairman of the Publicity and Communications Committee of the Consolidation of the New Rivers Vision Campaign Council, Chief Ogbonna Nwuke, the party confirmed that the ruling party in the state had complied with the provision of the law.
He said that the party had received official approval from the office of the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Prince Chinedum Mbom, to use the facilities after meeting the requirements.
The letter conveyed to the PDP in Rivers state reads: “I hereby acknowledge receipt of your deposit of N95million 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.”
Nwuke added that with the letter of approval, the PDP was ready to commence its campaigns in public facilities.
His words: “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 authorisation, following full compliance with the order, we are prepared to commence open air campaigns in Rivers State.
“Similarly, we attaching 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 fulfil 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.
“Siminalayi 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.”