Edwin Clark Commends President Tinubu’s Non-Interference in Off-cycle Elections

Chief Edwin Clark led Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for his non-interference in last Saturday’s off-season elections in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo states.

The group also commended the electoral umpire and the security agencies for the successful conduct of the polls.

PANDEF also urged losers in the polls to show sportsmanship by conceding defeat.

The group in a statement signed by its national chairman, Emmanuel Ibok Essien, stated: “We must also commend the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his stately stance of non-interference in the electoral process.

“We are using this opportunity to also commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the security agencies for the orderly manner in which they conducted the off-season election in Bayelsa State. It should be noted that Bayelsa State is critical to the stability of the Niger Delta region, and the national economy in general. Hence, the peaceful electoral outcome is quite pleasing to all.”

PANDEF also called: “On all the other governorship candidates in the election, especially former Governor Chief Timipre Sylva of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to follow the example set by the noble son of Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta, former President Goodluck Jonathan, in reaching out to Governor Diri who has been returned winner of the November 11 Governorship election, in the overall interest of Bayelsa state.”

They also congratulated Governor Douye Diri “On his well-deserved re-election for a 2nd Term and urged him to be magnanimous in victory while calling on all political leaders in Bayelsa State to work together by placing the peace and stability of the state above all other considerations.

“PANDEF further commends the people of Bayelsa state for the relatively peaceful governorship election, which was devoid of violence in most places.”

PANDEF calls on the security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported unfortunate incident of death in Brass local government area of the state as well as other infractions committed during the election.