The All Progressives Congress Reform Group (APCRG) has called upon the leadership of the party to refrain from granting automatic tickets to the defecting members of the Rivers State House of Assembly when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducts by-elections to fill the vacant seats.
In a statement released on Saturday in Abuja, Moses Eguono, the national president of APCRG, a pressure group within the party, expressed appreciation for the Appeal Court’s decision to reject the reinstatement of Martins Amaewhule and 26 others as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who had defected to the APC.
Describing the ruling as a significant triumph for democracy, the rule of law, and the principles of political integrity, Eguono urged the APC to be prepared to nominate candidates for the vacant seats as soon as INEC announces its intention to hold a by-election.
However, he emphasized that only credible candidates who align with the party’s principles and philosophy would be considered to represent the APC.
“Our candidates will be carefully selected based on their alignment with the core principles and philosophy of our party. We will choose individuals who share our vision for a better Rivers State and a stronger Nigeria,” stated Eguono.
He further expressed gratitude for the Appeal Court’s decision to uphold the verdict of the Federal Court, considering it a resounding judgment and a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and the principles of political integrity.
Eguono commended the judiciary for safeguarding democracy from political opportunism and destabilization and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the constitution and maintaining a robust democracy.
