Ahead of the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State, scheduled for October 5, 2024, the South South Youths Initiative (SSYI) has called on Governor Sir Siminialayi Fubara to provide operational vehicles for the State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
According to the SSYI, this provision is crucial for ensuring that the NSCDC can effectively carry out its mandate of securing lives and properties during the elections.
In a statement signed by the National President of SSYI, Comrade Imeabe Oscar, the group emphasized that the operational efficiency of the NSCDC is vital for the success of the election.
“We want to remind His Excellency, Governor Siminialayi Fubara, of the need to equip the NSCDC, Rivers State Command, with operational vehicles, as they will play a critical role in the forthcoming elections,” Comrade Oscar stated.
Oscar pointed out that successive governments have often focused on providing vehicles for the police while neglecting other security agencies such as the NSCDC.
He urged the state government to extend similar support to the NSCDC, noting that the lack of vehicles could hinder their operations during the local government elections.
Additionally, SSYI called on all political parties and stakeholders to ensure that the elections are peaceful and conducted with civility.
“We urge all parties to be peaceful and allow the elections to hold without disruption. Governance can only be felt at the grassroots level when elected officers are in charge,” Oscar added.
He also expressed concerns about the type of politics practiced in Rivers State, lamenting that it has hindered the state’s economic progress.
Oscar urged the governor to focus more on governance and development rather than political struggles, stating that Rivers State has the potential to compete with other economically advanced states like Lagos.
SSYI also criticized the performance of the outgoing caretaker committee chairmen, accusing them of focusing on personal gain rather than improving the lives of people at the grassroots.
The group advised that candidates for the upcoming elections should be selected based on their commitment to serving the public and not personal enrichment.
Finally, Comrade Oscar called on all stakeholders to close ranks and work together for the overall development of Rivers State.
He urged cooperation among all parties to ensure that the state thrives economically, with functional seaports and airports, and leaves behind its reputation for political violence.
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