● Tonye Okurumo
Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The Action People’s Party (APP) has emerged victorious in 22 out of 23 local government chairmanship seats in the just-concluded elections in Rivers State, displacing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from its long-held dominance. The elections, which were organized by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), were widely praised for their transparency and fairness, with stakeholders commending the electoral body for its professionalism.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara (L) and Nyesom Wike
Justice Adolphus Enebeli, the Chief Election Officer of RSIEC, announced the results at a press briefing on Saturday in Port Harcourt. He emphasized that the process was conducted in accordance with electoral guidelines, ensuring that the will of the people was upheld. “This election reflects the will of the people, and we congratulate the APP for their success across Rivers State,” Enebeli remarked, adding that RSIEC was committed to delivering credible elections in the state.
However, results from Etche Local Government Area were not declared, as collation is still ongoing. Enebeli explained that the delay was due to logistical challenges and assured the public that the results for Etche LGA would be announced in due course. “The collation process for Etche is still in progress, and we will provide a detailed update as soon as it is completed,” he stated.
Stakeholders
Stakeholders across the political spectrum have commended RSIEC for conducting what they described as a transparent and credible election. Speaking on behalf of civil society observers, Mrs. Grace Tamuno, a representative of the Rivers State Civil Society Coalition, praised the commission for maintaining neutrality throughout the process. “RSIEC has set a standard for future elections with their level of transparency and adherence to due process. This election was free from undue influence, and the people’s choice was clear,” she noted.
In response to the announcement, APP Chairman in Rivers State, Mr. Emmanuel Ikuru, expressed his delight over the party’s landslide victory. He praised the electorate for their trust in the APP and pledged that the new chairmen would work towards the development of their respective local governments. “We are deeply grateful to the people of Rivers State for their overwhelming support. Our chairmen will prioritize the welfare and progress of the people,” Ikuru affirmed.
Meanwhile, RSIEC announced that the results for the 319 councillorship seats would be declared at the same time as the Etche LGA chairmanship results. This has left many in the state eagerly awaiting the final tally, as the new wave of political leadership begins to take shape in Rivers State. Political analysts, like Dr. Tamuno Briggs, have described the results as a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. GMTNewsng
