Rivers State Governor Insists on Holding Local Government Elections Amid Tensions

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, visited the secretariat of the Ikwerre Local Government Area on Monday to assess the damage caused by arsonists who set the building ablaze earlier that day. The incident is one of several that have marred the local government elections in the oil-rich state.

The election, which was initially threatened by the withdrawal of police officers securing the 23 council secretariats, went ahead on Saturday amid heightened tension. The police had pulled out their personnel on Monday, citing concerns over their safety. Despite this, Governor Fubara insisted that the election proceed as scheduled.

The results of the polls have been announced, with the Action Peoples Party (APP) winning 22 chairmanship positions out of 23 in the state. The Action Alliance (AA) won one seat. The newly elected local government chairmen were sworn in by Governor Fubara on Sunday, but some of them were attacked upon assumption of office on Monday.

The arson attacks have caused significant damage to the secretariats, with reports of shattered glasses, burnt office equipment, files, chairs, and tables, and other consumables. The motives behind the attacks are still unclear, but they have added to the tensions surrounding the election.

Governor Fubara’s decision to go ahead with the election despite the challenges has been seen as a bold move by many. The outcome of the polls is a testament to the resilience of the people of Rivers State, who have shown a determination to exercise their democratic rights despite the obstacles in their path.

The events in Rivers State serve as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety and security of election officials and the general public during electoral processes. It is essential that governments and election authorities take steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

In the meantime, the people of Rivers State are left to ponder the implications of the election results and the challenges that lie ahead for their local governments. One thing is clear, however: the spirit of democracy has been demonstrated in the state, and the people will not be deterred from exercising their rights.