FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has announced that suspended Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara will return to office September 18.
He said the just-concluded local government elections paved the way to lift the emergency.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed that the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, will return to office on September 18. He said the conclusion of the local government elections in the state has paved the way for the lifting of the state of emergency.
Wike made the remark shortly after casting his vote at Unit 007, Ward 9, Rumuepirikom, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. The elections, conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), took place across 23 local government areas and 319 wards.
The exercise was, however, marred by a low voter turnout in several urban centres, late arrival of materials, and complaints about missing result sheets. In many areas, polling began late due to logistics problems. Some communities also raised concerns about the absence of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
Despite police restrictions on movement, many residents went about their daily routines, with some markets partially open. Where voting eventually started, party agents and voters in parts of Emohua, Ikwerre, Obio/Akpor and Opobo/Nkoro complained about missing electoral materials.
Some candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) still described the process as credible. Obio/Akpor chairmanship candidate, Dr. Gift Worlu, said the turnout reflected the people’s support for the PDP. “We are happy that our people are performing their civic duty. I’m confident in our chances,” he said.
House of Representatives Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, also praised RSIEC for a peaceful process, while Port Harcourt City chairmanship candidate, Allwell Ihunda, insisted the election was free and fair.
Wike, reacting to the general conduct, said the exercise was peaceful and successful. According to him, this clears the ground for ending the state of emergency in Rivers.
