Elder statesman, Bode George, has condemned the exclusion of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Labour Party (LP) from Saturday’s Rivers State House of Assembly by-election.

Earlier, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had announced that the three political parties would not participate in the February 21 by-election in Rivers, citing various reasons.

Reacting to the development via a statement, George called for more clarity on the reasons behind the exclusion.

The former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP emphasised the importance of transparency and adherence to due process in the conduct of elections.

He insisted that Nigerians deserve clear explanations for the parties’ disqualification.

He said, “I strongly believe the question Nigerians should ask now is this: why were major political parties disqualified from participating in the election?

“How can political parties be disqualified in this manner? Nigerians deserve clear explanations on the criteria applied and how the decisions were reached.” 

According to him, political parties play a vital role in democratic governance and should be given a fair opportunity to participate in the electoral process, in line with the law.

The elder statesman referenced past political developments in Nigeria, urging stakeholders to learn from history and ensure that democratic institutions are strengthened.