Wike Signals Fubara’s Return as Rivers LGA Elections Face Challenges

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has suggested that the return of the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, will take place as scheduled on 18th September.

This statement comes amidst challenges in the Local Government Area (LGA) elections in Rivers State on Saturday, where widespread voter apathy, logistical issues, and the absence of original result sheets marred the voting process.

The elections were conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) across 23 LGAs and 319 wards. However, many polling units saw low voter turnout, particularly in urban areas, while some rural areas showed better participation. The RSIEC faced delays in delivering electoral materials, which arrived late at several locations, including Obio/Akpor, Port Harcourt City, and Emohua. This caused delays in voting, with some polling units unable to start until after 11 am.

Notably, the elections were held without the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), a significant omission that raised concerns. Reports also emerged that some wards, including those in Emohua LGA, were without original result sheets, causing confusion.

At the same time, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairmanship Candidate for Obio/Akpor, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu, acknowledged the delayed arrival of materials but expressed confidence in the election process. “It is better it came late than never,” Worlu remarked, highlighting the strong voter turnout in his area and vowing to run a people-centric administration if elected.

Hon. Kingsley Chinda, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, praised RSIEC for a peaceful election, noting that there were no signs of electoral fraud. He also highlighted the positive engagement of voters, who turned out in large numbers to cast their ballots.

Sir Allwell Ihunda, PDP Chairmanship Candidate for Port Harcourt City LGA, also spoke in favor of the peaceful conduct of the election, citing his strong record of delivering projects in all 20 wards of the LGA. He expressed confidence in winning the election, despite claims of voter apathy.

In a related development, Wike, who had cast his vote at Rumepirikom, Ward 9, Unit 007, in Obio/Akpo, celebrated the peaceful nature of the election, noting that the lack of violence and the smooth conduct of voting were positive indicators. He also commented on the absence of BVAS, expressing concern over its non-usage, but stated that the election was “very peaceful.”

Wike further indicated that with the conclusion of the LGA elections, the situation was now clear for Fubara’s reinstatement. “With the election successfully concluded, the state of emergency can now be lifted,” Wike said, signaling a return to normal governance in Rivers.

As the electoral process continues, officials remain hopeful that the issues of voter apathy and logistical challenges will be addressed in future elections.