Wike sets rules for use of public schools for political rallies

Okafor Ofiebor/Port Harcourt

Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, on Friday signed Executive Order 21 to prohibit the use of public schools for political rallies without the approval of the state ministry of education.

He said the application for approval must be submitted at least two weeks before the date of the campaign.

The Governor who made this known during a broadcast added that application for approval must be submitted at least two weeks before the date of the campaign with a N5 million naira caution fee in case attendees destroy the facilities in the schools.

The governor also said a local Council Chairman has the right to stop any political rally if approval is not sought by the organisers.

He, also, warned that the state government will not allow political parties and their supporters to disturb the peace in the state, as the campaigns begin.

The Rivers State governor advised candidates for next year’s election to be committed, peaceful, and responsible in their conduct as required by law.

He threatened that any head of school that connives with political parties to hold rallies without approval by the state government will be dealt with.

Wike also reiterated his stance against the use of hotels and other leisure spots as meeting points by hoodlums and cultists ahead of the 2023 elections.