The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed optimism that the successful conduct of the Rivers local government elections marks a significant step towards the end of emergency rule in the state. Speaking after casting his vote in the Rivers council elections, Wike stated that the presence of elected representatives at the local government level would pave the way for the lifting of the state of emergency.

The elections, which took place on Saturday, were hailed by Wike as peaceful, with no reports of violence or electoral malpractices. He acknowledged concerns about low voter turnout but noted that the number of participants was expected to increase as the day progressed. The successful conduct of the elections is seen as a crucial step towards restoring democratic governance in the state.

The Rivers local government elections were conducted six months after the Supreme Court nullified a previous election held by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission. In March, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state, citing rising tensions over a political impasse between Wike and his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. The declaration led to the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State Assembly, with Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas appointed as sole administrator to run the state.

However, in a recent development, Fubara, Wike, and key members of the Rivers Assembly met with President Tinubu, resulting in a reported settlement of their differences. With the state of emergency set to expire on September 18, Wike expects the state governor and assembly to resume their duties, and the local government to have elected representatives. The successful conduct of the elections and the potential lifting of the state of emergency are seen as significant steps towards restoring stability and democratic governance in Rivers State.