APP Denies Claims of Candidate Manipulation in Rivers State Local Elections

The Action Peoples Party (APP) in Rivers State has firmly denied allegations made by Prince Favor Reuben, a prominent figure in the Labour Party, who accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of handpicking candidates for the APP ahead of the upcoming local government elections on October 5.

Reuben, who serves as the South-South Vice Chairman of the Labour Party, voiced these accusations during a press briefing on Monday in Port Harcourt, sparking a strong response from the APP.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the APP’s State Chairman, Sunny Wokekoro, dismissed Reuben’s allegations as baseless and advised him to concentrate on preparing for the forthcoming elections rather than engaging in what he described as “childish” and “misinformed” claims.

Wokekoro criticised Reuben for his lack of understanding regarding the internal operations of political parties, highlighting that each party has its own constitution and established procedures for conducting primaries and other administrative matters.

“In his statement, Reuben has shown a significant lack of knowledge about how party administration works,” Wokekoro stated.

“Ordinarily, we wouldn’t even dignify his gibberish with a response, but it’s important to set the record straight.

The administration of political parties, including their congresses and primaries, is governed by each party’s constitution, and the Action Peoples Party is no exception.”

Wokekoro emphasised that the APP had already conducted its primaries in full compliance with the provisions of its constitution, making it clear that any claims suggesting external interference were unfounded.

He noted that Governor Fubara is not affiliated with the APP and, therefore, has no influence over the party’s selection of candidates.

“Reuben’s claims that a meeting took place at the government house where candidates were allegedly handpicked by Governor Fubara are completely false.

If Reuben has any evidence or credible sources from that meeting, let him bring it forward.

No official from the Action Peoples Party was involved in such a gathering, and it is simply a fabrication meant to mislead the public,” Wokekoro continued.

Wokekoro further stressed that Reuben has no authority or standing to question the internal affairs of the APP, pointing out that his comments were not only irrelevant but also lacked substance.

He reiterated that the APP is fully committed to its principles and processes and is open to welcoming new members from other political parties who share its vision and goals.

The Chairman expressed confidence in the party’s ability to secure victories across all local government areas in the upcoming elections.

“Our party is strictly adhering to the timetable set by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RESIEC),” Wokekoro assured.

“We are focused on the task ahead, and any suggestions that we are acting under the influence of external forces are rooted in ignorance and are completely false.

We stand by our candidates and our process, which has been transparent and in line with our party’s guidelines.”

Reuben’s allegations appear to be part of a broader strategy to undermine the APP’s credibility in the lead-up to the local government elections.

However, the APP’s swift and detailed rebuttal of these claims has underscored its commitment to independent decision-making and adherence to established electoral protocols.

Wokekoro’s response not only defends the integrity of the APP’s candidate selection process but also challenges Reuben and his associates to focus on their own campaign preparations rather than attempting to discredit other parties.

The broader context of this dispute reflects the highly competitive nature of Rivers State politics, where parties often engage in public accusations and counter-accusations as a means of swaying voter perceptions.

While such tactics are not uncommon, Wokekoro’s insistence on transparency and adherence to party rules sets a precedent for how the APP intends to conduct itself amid the electoral challenges.

As the October 5 local government elections draw near, the APP remains resolute in its mission to secure electoral success through legitimate and transparent means.

Wokekoro’s call for Reuben to redirect his energies towards meaningful campaign activities rather than making unfounded accusations serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and focus in the political arena.

The APP’s leadership has made it clear that it will not be swayed by external distractions and remains dedicated to the principles that guide its operations.

With a clear strategy and confidence in its candidates, the APP is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming elections, reflecting the party’s growth and commitment to representing the interests of the people of Rivers State.