THE Action People’s Party (APP) has swept the Local Government elections in Rivers State, defeating other political parties who participated in the polls, yesterday.
The candidates of the party took an early lead in the results of the polls monitored by the agents of the APP, which candidates have won in some of the results that were announced as at the time this report was filed.
Despite the initial fears expressed in some quarters that the election wouldn’t hold; and that it would be marred by violence if it eventually held, the election was peaceful except for some isolated cases of violence.
However, the majority of voters who started heading to their various polling units teamed up with the officers of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and local vigilance group members to provide security.
Also, it was only in a few polling units that voters did not cast their votes early, as some of them were seen waiting patiently for the officials of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to arrive and begin accreditation.
In Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, the base of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nysom Wike, accreditation started early in most of the polling units, where the APP carried the day, defeating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Despite the rain lasting for almost two hours, some voters continued with the election while others trooped out immediately after the rain ended.
Meanwhile, Rivers State Political Leaders and Elders have paid a solidarity visit to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, at Government House, Port Harcourt, commending him for his doggedness and strong efforts to ensure the smooth conduct of the October 5, 2024, Local Government elections in the State.
They also assured him of God’s continuous guardian and protection as he strives to deliver democratic dividends to Rivers people, despite distractions intended to slow down his pace.
The leaders include former Governor, Sir Celestine Omehia; former Deputy Governor, Engr Tele Ikuru; Sen Lee Maeba; former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Sir Austin Opara; former Minister of Transport, Dr Abiye Sekibo; and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus.
Speaking on behalf of the group, former Governor of Rivers State, Sir Celestine Omehia, said, “We are leaders and elders of this great state, Rivers State.
“We are here to encourage the Governor of the State, who is also the leader, as of right, for what he has done and put in place for the conduct of the local government elections coming up on Saturday Thank God for who he is and what he has been doing for the people of Rivers State.
