Wike hints on Fubara’s return as Rivers holds LG polls

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has indicated that the return of suspended Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on September 18 is on track.

Wike’s remarks come amidst significant challenges faced during the Local Government Area elections in Rivers State, which experienced empty polling units and widespread voter apathy.

During the elections, conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) across 319 wards and 23 local government areas, logistical issues plagued the process.

Many voting centers, particularly in areas like Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt City, reported delays in the arrival of electoral materials, appointed due to sorting and manpower shortages.

In stark contrast to regulations, residents partially flouted a movement restriction imposed by the police, leading to a noticeable low turnout in urban areas.

However, participation improved in certain rural regions. Nyebuchi Chinda, the PDP agent in Unit 18 Ward 5 Elelewo, cited delays in voting attributed to electoral officers distributing materials to various units.

Concerns surrounding the absence of original result sheets marred parts of the election, affecting wards such as Ward 5 in Emohua LGA, as well as areas in Ikwerre and Khana. Particularly concerning was the report that original result sheets were missing in Opobo/Nkoro LGA, the home of suspended Governor Fubara.

Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu, the PDP Chairmanship Candidate in Obio/Akpor, remarked on the delayed arrival of electoral materials, stating, “It is better it came late than never,” as he emphasized the importance of civic participation.

Hon. Kingsley Chinda, Minority Leader of the 10th Assembly, commended the RSIEC for the peaceful conduct of the elections, asserting, “You can see that people are coming out to vote… It is more organised than the previous elections.”

Sir Allwell Ihunda, the PDP Chairmanship Candidate for Port Harcourt City LGA, expressed confidence in the electoral process, claiming, “I don’t believe that there is voter apathy as said,” while predicting his victory based on his previous achievements in his first tenure.

Meanwhile, as the elections concluded, Minister Wike expressed satisfaction with the peaceful atmosphere, voicing his disappointment over the non-use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) but remaining pleased with the overall voter turnout. He conveyed optimism about lifting the Emergency Rule in the state, stating, “I am very happy. It means that people identify with the election.”

Source: Vanguard newspaper