Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed satisfaction with the conduct of Saturday’s local government elections in Rivers State, describing the process as credible, transparent, and widely embraced by residents.
Speaking after casting his vote at Polling Unit 007, Ward 9, Rumuepirikom Kingdom, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Wike commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for organising a successful exercise.
“I want to thank RSIEC for ensuring the smooth conduct of the local government elections. This is my community, and the turnout here has been very impressive. In residential areas, you naturally expect large numbers, unlike commercial zones where participation may be lower,” he said.
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He added that rural communities also recorded significant voter participation, reflecting citizens’ enthusiasm to elect leaders at the grassroots. “Rivers people are glad to have their own people on the ballot. I have received feedback from across the state showing that many came out to vote, and that makes me very happy,” Wike noted.
Addressing concerns over possible legal challenges, Wike dismissed fears, affirming that the process was conducted in line with the law. “The Supreme Court had earlier ruled that there was no valid election. What is happening today is legal, transparent and binding. Nobody is worried because this time the process is legitimate,” he explained.
The minister linked the election to the financial autonomy of local councils, stressing that the outcome would ensure direct access to funds from the Federation Account, as mandated by the Supreme Court. “With this election, local governments can now receive their allocations directly. That is why we must commend President Bola Tinubu for insisting that elections be conducted. Without elected officials in place, the councils would have remained excluded from funding,” he said.
Wike further noted the importance of the exercise in stabilising governance at the grassroots. He reiterated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the state House of Assembly would return on September 18, when the state of emergency expires. “By the time the governor and state assembly return, having elected councils will complete the governance structure. Today’s election ensures that by the end of the day, Rivers will have duly elected grassroots leaders who can be sworn in to serve the people,” he added.
