Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has affirmed that the local government election scheduled for Saturday, October 5, will go ahead despite opposition from supporters of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. The governor cautioned against any attempts to disrupt the electoral process, asserting that actions aimed at causing confusion or instability will not be tolerated.
Protesters from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), loyal to Wike, and a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Chief Tony Okocha, previously announced their withdrawal from the election, citing irregularities and lack of due process by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). While Okocha’s faction has taken legal action against the RSIEC, another APC faction aligned with former Minister Rotimi Amaechi has chosen to participate, with candidates nominated in 22 out of 23 local government areas.
Despite a temporary court injunction that prohibits the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from releasing the voter register and restricts security agencies from providing support for the election, the RSIEC remains determined to proceed. They assert they have access to the voter register, contradicting INEC’s stance.
During a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House, Governor Fubara criticized the protests, pointing out that his party, the PDP, is not participating in the elections. He cited a Supreme Court ruling mandating elected officials to manage local government affairs, thus necessitating the election’s continuation.
Fubara questioned why Rivers State faces unique challenges compared to other states that have successfully conducted local government elections using the 2023 voter register. He suggested that some protesters were outsiders brought in to create unrest.
The governor urged registered voters and political leaders to be present at polling units on Saturday to ensure a smooth electoral process.
Earlier that day, a large group of PDP members, led by state chairman Aaron Chukwuemeka, staged a protest against the RSIEC’s plans, despite a court order against the election. Protesters, including prominent party members, marched through the streets, carrying placards demanding adherence to the court ruling.
Chukwuemeka reiterated the PDP’s refusal to participate in the election, warning that any attempt by the RSIEC to proceed could lead to unrest. The Deputy Commissioner of Police acknowledged the protesters’ peaceful conduct and pledged to relay their concerns to the Commissioner of Police.
As the election date approaches, tensions remain high, with strong sentiments expressed by both factions regarding the legitimacy of the electoral process.
Written By; Christopher Emuakpeje