The People’s Democratic Party in Rivers State has said it paid the sum of N95 million for the use of public facilities for its open house campaigns in the state.
The party said the payment met the precautionary requirement of N5 million per venue stipulated by Executive Order 21 signed by Governor Nyesom Wike last year.
This was contained in a statement issued by the New Rivers Vision Consolidation Campaign Council Publicity and Communications Committee Chairman, Chief Ogbonna Nwuke in Port Harcourt on Thursday and made available to journalists.
Nwuke said the ruling PDP was simply setting an example and he wanted other political parties to do the same.
He further said that the party has received official approval from the office of the Education Commissioner, Prof. Chinedum Mbom, which entitles it to use the state-owned facilities.
Executive Order 21 prescribes the payment of N5 million by political parties as precautionary fees for the use of public schools and similar facilities.
Part of the letter sent to the PDP in Rivers State reads: “I hereby acknowledge receipt of your deposit of the total sum of Ninety Five Million Naira (N95,000,000. 00) into the State Government Account only, being the preventive deposit required for the use of the facilities of the indicated public schools in Rivers State.
“Sir, as a consequence of your compliance with the directive contained in our letter dated December 6, 2022, I hereby convey to you my approval of your request for the use of state school facilities as indicated in the annex to your request. ”
The PDP pointed out that due to the notice received that proves compliance with the dictates of Decree 21, it is ready to start outdoor campaigns.
Nwuke’s statement read: “Prior to this time, we have publicly indicated as a responsible political party that the PDP will comply with the dictates of Executive Order 21.
“Now that we have received the proper authorization, following full compliance with the order, we are prepared to begin outdoor drives in Rivers State.
“In the same way, we attach a photocopy of the approval letter so that it is recorded that the PDP is not above the law. As we thank the people of Rivers for their unwavering support of our great party, we assure them that our candidates will deliver on the promises made to the electorate.
“Governor Nyesom Wike came together and moved on to exceed promises made to the people to pursue a clear vision that is transforming the State into the home of infrastructure.
“Siminalayi Fubara and all our candidates will consolidate the democracy dividend that the PDP is delivering. This is our promise to the masses.”
