Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his supporters were noticeably absent during Saturday’s local government elections for chairmen and councillors across the state. Despite assurances, Fubara, who hails from Opobo LGA, did not return from London for the polls.
The elections followed a peace deal between Fubara and his political mentor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers on March 18 amid a political crisis. Tinubu had suspended Fubara, his deputy, and the state assembly, appointing Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.) as sole administrator.
Ahead of the polls, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission cleared several parties, but APC dominated with 20 chairmanship candidates, while PDP fielded three. Sources confirmed APC secured 20 LG seats, while PDP got three, including Obio/Akpor, Port Harcourt City, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGAs.
Wike expressed confidence that the emergency rule would end on September 18, paving the way for Fubara’s return. He commended the peaceful polls despite voter apathy, delayed materials, and lack of BVAS.
Ibas hailed the election as a step toward restoring grassroots democracy, while Fubara’s camp remained silent on his comeback. Legal experts, however, insist the governor should be reinstated to complete his mandate.
