JUST IN: PDP warns APC against election rigging in Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi states during off-cycle polls

In a strongly worded statement by its national publicity secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP declared its firm commitment to utilizing every legitimate means to defend the people's votes in the three states.

The party emphasized a zero-tolerance stance towards any form of electoral manipulation and asserted a firm resolve to resist any efforts to interfere with the electoral process.

Specifically targeting Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, and the APC candidate, Usman Ododo, the PDP urged them to acknowledge the alleged rejection by the people, asserting their readiness to concede defeat on the election day.

Citing indicators from multiple polls, the PDP expressed confidence in the lead of their candidates and warned of opposing any election results that contradict the people's choices at the polling units.

"Meanwhile, the PDP cautions that the delay by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to redeploy the Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Sylvia Agu, is heightening tension and capable of pushing the people to resort to self-help.

"We are in a democracy, and INEC must respect the wishes and aspirations of the people and stakeholders in the electoral process.

"The people of Imo State have spoken clearly in demanding that Prof. Agu must not participate in any capacity whatsoever in the November 11, 2023, governorship election in Imo State, given her antecedents in favouring the APC in previous elections.

"The PDP is marching to victory with the people of Bayelsa, Kogi and Imo States, notwithstanding the antics of the APC," the statement concluded.