The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has demanded for a comprehensive inquest into violence and killings allegedly recorded in the just-concluded governorship election in Bayelsa State.
This is contained in a statement signed by the acting National Chairman of the party, Mr Uche Secondus, on Monday in Abuja.
The party decried what it described as “desperation’’ of the All Progressives Party (APC), whose ‘’thugs openly engaged in violence resulting in the killing and maiming of innocent Bayelsans’’.
“We hereby demand a comprehensive inquest into these killings and that all perpetrators be brought to book,’’ the statement said.
It alleged that from what happened in Bayelsa, it was clear that the APC was not disposed to free, fair and credible electoral process in the country.
‘’The PDP and lovers of democracy salute the people of Bayelsa state for standing against intimidation, rigging and violence to ensure that their votes prevailed in Saturday’s supplementary election.
“In fact, the steadfastness and resilience shown by the people, particularly in Southern Ijaw, will go down in history as one of the many sacrifices made to defend democracy in the land,’’ it said.
According to the PDP, by standing against intimidation and remaining resilient, the people of Bayelsa have greatly contributed in deepening democracy in the country.
“They have by so doing ensured that their own destiny is right in their own hands.
“Bayelsa is a core PDP state and one wonders how APC thought it could win in this gubernatorial election, knowing the strength and popularity of our great party in the state.
“This is more so in addition to the record of achievements of our candidate, Gov. Seriake Dickson,’’ it stated.
The party congratulated Dickson for his “well-deserved victory’’, and commended him for handling the situation during the Dec. 5, 2015 election and Saturday’s supplementary poll with maturity “in the face of provocations’’.
