Rivers State Achieves Democratic Governance

Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok‑Ete Ibas, announced that the presidential mandate to restore democratic governance in the state has been achieved. This follows the successful conduct of local government elections and the swearing‑in of elected chairmen and councillors across the 23 local government areas. The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) presented a comprehensive report on the elections to Ibas at Government House in Port Harcourt. Ibas said the presidential directive—intended to stabilise the state, re‑establish its institutions, and return Rivers State to full democratic governance—has been fulfilled. He praised the RSIEC for organising a fair, credible and transparent process.

RSIEC Chairman Mike Odey described the election as a “historic achievement” for Rivers State and Nigeria. The report covered the entire electoral process, from notice to the announcement of winners, and outlined achievements, challenges and recommendations for future elections. Odey credited the success to collaboration with political parties, civil society and security agencies. Notably, the election was conducted within 30 days, an unprecedented record in Nigeria’s electoral history.

Ibas assured that the RSIEC report would be reviewed and that a government white paper would follow. He expressed appreciation to his team, security agencies and state officials for their cooperation. The state of emergency, imposed on 18 March 2025 due to a political crisis between Governor Sim Fubara and Martins Amaewhule’s camp, was resolved after President Bola Tinubu reconciled the parties at the Presidential Villa in June. The resolution paved the way for the restoration of democratic governance.

The successful local government elections mark a significant step toward stabilising the state and re‑establishing its institutions. The next steps will involve implementing the RSIEC’s recommendations and maintaining stakeholder collaboration to ensure the sustainability of democratic governance in Rivers State.