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PDP Sweeps LG Polls In Rivers …Wike Swears In Council Chairmen, Today …Okah, Maeba, Others Hail RSIEC, Electorate
Candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have won all the chairmanship seats of the 23 local government councils in last Saturday’s local government and councillorship elections conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
Chairman of the commission, Justice Chukwuneye Uriri who announced the results of the election at the commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt, late last night said the PDP chairmanship candidates got the highest number of votes ahead of the candidates of other political parties that participated in the election.
The chairman, who doubled as the Chief Returning Officer in the elections said the results of the councillorship elections would be announced today.
Justice Uriri commended the security operatives for their efforts in ensuring hitch-free polls and lauded the electorate for their large turn out and peaceful conduct during the elections.
Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike has commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for conducting credible Local Government Elections across the state.
The governor also commended security agencies for ensuring that the elections were peaceful by creating the right atmosphere for peaceful polls.
Speaking in an interview after monitoring the local government elections in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor local government areas, Wike said that the non-participation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the elections turned out to be one of the reasons why the process was peaceful.
He said: “Sixty-six out of 68 political parties participated, but no violence. That means that if APC had participated, probably, we would have seen violence.
“Sixty-six political parties, no violence, no shooting, nobody has died. But if the APC had participated, they would want to coerce security agencies, they would do all manner of negative things like bringing cultists to shoot. You can see that nobody hijacked materials. Everything has been peaceful”.
The governor noted that the security agencies played their constitutional roles during the elections.
“I have called the heads of security agencies, and commended them for a job well done. That is what I have always said. Allow people to vote for those they want”.
He advised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure they conduct credible elections by resisting pressures from different quarters.
“INEC can be committed to do the right thing. Once they build confidence, every other thing will move on smoothly”, the governor said.
Wike said that he was more interested in the peaceful and credible conduct of the elections than anything else.
“We have gone round two local government areas. The elections went on peacefully, and they were credible. Election materials arrived on time, except for a few places. Like this, nobody will complain. Observers from across the board have commended the process”, Wike said.
In another development, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike will swear-in all the newly elected Local Government Council Chairmen by 12.30pm on Monday, June 18, 2018 at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House, Port Harcourt.
A statement by Simeon Nwakaudu, Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor on Electronic Media noted that all the newly elected Local Government Council Chairmen are to be seated by 12noon.
Similarly, the Rivers State Deputy Governor, Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo has commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for conducting a peaceful free and fair Local Government Council Polls.
The deputy governor stated this shortly after casting her vote at Ward 14, Unit 10 in Obuama, Degema Local Government Area.
“The turnout is quite satisfactory and the people are generally enthused to cast their votes. We have been having positive reports from the field, the whole place is peaceful, and I commend the people for their peaceful disposition”, Banigo stressed.
Similarly, Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Barrister Emma Okah has commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for early distribution of electoral materials across the 23 LGAs.
In an interview with The Tide, Okah expressed satisfaction with the huge turnout of voters in communities across the state, shortly after casting his vote in his Ward, unit 8, Elele, Ikwerre Local Government area.
The Commissioner who lauded the electorate for their peaceful conduct said Nigerians have a lot to learn from the free and fair polls in the state, adding that it should be a model for Nigeria’s democracy.
Insisting on the need for opposition in democratic governance, Okah said it strengthens democracy and serves as “the oil with which to eat the yam of democracy”.
He advised politicians not to see elections as a do or die affair.
Also speaking with The Tide shortly after casting his vote at Luuwa Community in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Senator Lee Maeba, said the local government polls will set the pace for the 2019 general election.
Noting that Rivers people were effectively mobilised to exercise their franchsie, the Senator who represented Rivers South East in the National Assembly, said Rivers people will resist any attempt to truncate the electoral process in 2019.
He commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for conducting credible LG polls in Rivers State, and lauded the electorate for their massive turn out during the polls.
The lawmaker representing, Asari-Toru/Akuku-Toru Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. Boma Goodhead who also spoke with newsmen during the election, also commended RSIEC and Security Agencies for the peaceful conduct of the election.
The federal lawmaker noted that the successful conduct of the polls was an indication of the political maturity in the state and called on the electorate to always defend their votes in subsequent elections.
Also speaking in an interview with newsmen shortly after casting her vote in Kaani Babbe community in Khana Local Government Area, the State Commissioner for Environment, Prof. Roseline Konya commended the electorate for their peaceful conduct during the elections.
She described the process as transparent and devoid of security breaches.
On his part, the State Commissioner for Works, Hon. Dumnamene Deekor, shortly after casting his vote at Beeri community, said the large turnout of voters in the polls shows that Rivers people are ready to exercise their electoral mandate.
He commended RSIEC and security operatives for putting in the right modalities for the conduct of a peace election in the state.
The Caretaker Committee Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, Rev. Francis Ada Ebenezer also described last Saturday’s local government election as very peaceful, free and fair.
Ebenezer told journalists, after casting his vote at Ward 3, Unit 4 in Ogu/Bolo Local Government that the peaceful conduct of the election was as a result of his advice to the people over the period.
The Ogu/Bolo CTC boss commended the electorate for coming out enmass to exercise their franchise.
In Omuma Local Government Area, the elections were peaceful, orderly, transparent and successful.
The Chairman Caretaker Committee (CTC), Hon. Eze Stanley Nwuju shortly after casting his vote at Ward One, Unit 4, Eberi, he attributed the success of the polls to the developmental strides of Rivers Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike and the show of political maturity of the people of the area.
The local government elections were peaceful across the 19 Wards in Etche Local Government Area of the State.
The elections which started early at about 8.30am in the area were devoid of violence as voters were seen casting their votes for their preferred candidates.
At Obibi/Akwukabi Ward 9 Umuokom/Achara Polling Unit 2, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Prince Nwodim who cast his vote alongside his wife, a female councillorship candidate in the Ward, at 9.30am lauded RSIEC for the fair and hitch-free elections in the area.
Ward 13, Unit 11, the PDP flagbearer, Hon. Obinna Anyanwu, after casting his vote, commended RSIEC and the security agencies for the peaceful conduct of the elections in the area.
He described the turnout of voters in his unit and ward as encouraging.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon Charles Nworgu also commended both RSIEC and security agents for the smooth and hitch free conduct of the elections in the state.
He made the commendation shortly after casting his vote at Umuoga Unit in Igbodo Ward 14.
At Opobo/ Nkoro LGA started about 8 am with distribution of electoral materials started about 9am.
The Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, King Dandeson Jaja got accredited and voted about 10am at Ward 7 in his palace.
He commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for smooth conduct of the elections.
Also, Caretaker Chairman of the Area, Sir Boma Brown who voted at Ward 6, Unit 5 said he was impressed with the huge turnout at the elections.
He debunked the claims by All Progressives Congress (APC) that the elections were a charade, “APC is predictable, everything about them is negative. Even among themselves, there is opposition, so people should not take them seriously”.
On his part, Commissioner for Education, Dr. Tamunosisi Gogo Jaja observed that RSIEC complied with the rules and regulations of a peaceful and hitch free election.
Gogo Jaja who tasked those that will emerge in the elections to jettison winner takes all attitude and embrace an all inclusive government.
After voting in his Ward at Ward 7, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate in the elections, Senibo Eugene Patesi Oko Jaja expressed happiness over the huge turn out of voters.
He commended voters over the peaceful manner they conducted themselves during the poll, while praising the governor, Chief Nyesom Wike for his developmental strides in the area, and assured of replicating same if elected.
Meanwhile, RSIEC Returning Officer in the LGA, Dr. Emmanuel Sunday Uruang has announced chairmanship results of 11 wards in area with PDP leading with 21,337 votes.
According to Uruang, PDP polled 21,337 out of 22,808 votes cast at the elections.
Following behind PDP is Social Democratic Party (SDP) with 137 votes, Labour Party 86 and APGA 71 votes.
He said other results will be declared at RSIEC headquarters.
The Tide witnessed large turn out of voters in all the units across communities in Degema Local Government Area (DELGA).
The PDP chairmanship candidate in the area, Dr. Tony Philmore and another party chieftain, Dr. Ipalibo Sogulus commended RSIEC for ensuring free and fair election in DELGA.
The two who spoke to newsmen shortly after casting their votes also commended the electorate for their level of maturity during the election.
Meanwhile, the Chairmanship hopeful of Tai Local Government Area and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the just concluded local government elections, Dr. Jacobson Nbina said that his administration will prioritise educational and agricultural development in the LGA.
Nbina who stated this while speaking with newsmen, after voting, pointed out that the conduct of the polls in the area was satisfactory.
He called on the people of Tai to always support the Wike led administration to attract more dividends of the democracy in the area.
Also, the PDP Chairmanship candidate in Gokana, in the LG Polls, Hon. Paul Kobani has assured that, the people of Gokana will benefit from his administration as he will run an all-inclusive government. He said he will give priority attention to peace, security and the welfare of civil servant, as well as boost agricultural activities through the provision of loans and micro credit incentive to farmers.
Hon. Kobani, who described Gokana as a PDP LGA, commended the people of the area for their massive participation in the LG polls.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairmanship candidate in last Saturday’s Local Government Election in Emohua, Chief Tom Aliezi says youth employment tops his priority.
In an interview with The Tide, the Chairmanship hopeful also vowed to check insecurity in the area, shortly after casting his vote in Elele Alimini, Ward 9.
Describing the election as peaceful and transparent, Aliezi said that he will ensure that investors are attracted to the area.
Aliezi listed youth empowerment, peace and manpower development as his priorities.
Meanwhile, the RSIEC Commissioner in charge of media and publicity, Rev. Innocent Karibo has said that the peaceful conduct of the Local Government Election in Rivers State was as a result of proper preparation by the commission and the cooperation of the security agencies. Karibo who disclosed this during a chat with newsmen while monitoring the elections, said the commission was poised to live up to its statutory mandate.
Victor Tew with additional reports from Opaka Dokubo, Taneh Beemene, John Bibor, Kevin Nengia, Akujobi Amadi, Sam Nwuju, Collins Barasimeye & Chinedu Wosu
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Fubara Frowns At Slow Pace Of Ndele–Omofo–Egmini–Agba-Ndele Road Project ….Says Contract May Be Reviewed
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed dissatisfaction over the slow progress of work on the 14.5-kilometer Ndele/Omofo/Egamini/Agba-Ndele Road project located off the East–West Road in Emohua Local Government Area.
Addressing newsmen during an inspection tour of the project on Tuesday, the Governor noted that the pace and quality of work being delivered by the contracting firm, Messrs Stream Co. & Equipment Limited, fell below acceptable standards.
He was accompanied on the tour by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Dr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, who briefed the Governor on the status of the project and adjoining infrastructure.
Governor Fubara, who appeared visibly unsatisfied with what he saw on the stretch of the road, said his administration would not condone mediocrity or allow public funds to be wasted on underperforming projects. He, therefore, hinted that a review of the contract may be imminent to ensure the delivery of quality infrastructure to the people.
“I can say here already that the contractor handling the road from the bridge to the East–West Road is not doing a good job. I’m not happy about it. When I get back, there will be a need to review that contract because I’m not impressed. They don’t have the capacity, and we need capacity because we must have value for whatever money we’re spending,” the Governor said.
The Governor, however, commended Setraco Nigeria Limited for the standard and pace of work on the 240-meter Agba-Ndele/Abua Bridge, which forms a major component of the project. He explained that the bridge, which his administration inherited, would significantly improve connectivity among communities in the area once completed.
Governor Fubara stated that the bridge will serve as a key link between communities in Abua/Odual, Ahoada-East, and Emohua Local Government Areas, reducing travel time and providing an alternative route to the East–West Road.
He emphasised that the project demonstrates his administration’s commitment to rural connectivity and inter-community access, which are central to his development vision for Rivers State.
“Where we are standing on is a bridge connecting Abua/Odual, Ahoada-East, and Emohua Local Government Areas. The community that is connected to this bridge is Agba-Ndele.
“Instead of running through the East–West Road to Ahoada-East and heading into Port Harcourt or out of it, this bridge provides easy access for the Abua/Odual people to cross into Emohua, Agba-Ndele, and access the East–West Road in minutes,” he explained.
Governor Fubara also expressed optimism that the bridge would be ready for use in early 2026, noting that Setraco’s expertise and performance met his administration’s expectations for quality and delivery timelines.
He highlighted that projects of such importance should be handled by firms with the capacity to meet government standards.
The Governor further remarked that once completed, the bridge would serve as a crucial economic corridor for farmers and traders, especially those involved in agriculture and cultivation of local produce across the beneficiary local government areas.
He maintained that his administration is determined to deliver people-oriented projects that promote connectivity, strengthen commerce, and enhance livelihoods across the State.
“I’m really impressed with what I’ve seen on the bridge. I’m very sure that before the end of January, it might be completely ready for us to walk through and even drive across,” Governor Fubara said.
Reaffirming his vision for Rivers people, the Governor noted that his development plan seeks to integrate all parts of the State through strategic infrastructure investments that promote mobility, social cohesion, and economic growth.
He explained that his government is executing projects across multiple local government areas to ensure balanced development and inclusivity.
Governor Fubara stated that the administration will soon address the deplorable state of the Abua/Ahoada Road, which he said, will be included in the 2026 state budget.
“Our vision is to connect the entire Rivers State together, especially communities that have challenges of access. The bridge here connects Abua/Odual and Ahoada-East to Emohua and Port Harcourt. It will ease movement, promote trade, and boost our economy because agriculture is strong on this side. Moving goods to the city won’t be a problem anymore,” he said.
Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure that provides value for public funds and meets the aspirations of Rivers people.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has unveiled plans to permanently relocate the dumpsite along the busy Port Harcourt Airport–Obiri-Ikwerre Road, describing the current location as both a public health threat and a damaging first impression for visitors arriving in Port Harcourt, the State capital.
The Governor made this known on Tuesday during an inspection of a proposed replacement site, which is a disused burrow pit near Bambo Estate, off Eneka Road in Igwuruta, Ikwerre Local Government Area.
The location is being assessed as a potential permanent dumpsite for the State.
Governor Fubara, who was conducted by the Board Chairman, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Dr Samuel Nwanosike, and its Managing Director, Dr Ibimina Wokoma, expressed concern about the environmental and health challenges posed by the existing site, which sits along a major entry point into the State.
“The kind of environmental hazards that we are facing there along the Airport–Obiri- Ikwerre Road; the smell on that road being the entrance into the State, we felt it’s not proper,” he said. “So, we are making alternative arrangements so we can have a permanent refuse dumpsite that meets acceptable standards.
“He added that the government would move swiftly to formalise ownership of the land and complete construction work on the access road to make the new site functional.“We have not concluded the issue of the burrow pit, but the access road, I think the government is doing something about it.
So, I will make sure that everything that needs to be done to ensure government owns this burrow pit is done,” he stated.
Governor Fubara also commended the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) for what he described as a more assertive and improved approach to managing refuse across the State.In addition to the dumpsite inspection, the Governor also visited the Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters located in Elimgbu Town, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, to assess the extent of ongoing construction work on the facility.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has charged the newly appointed Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barrister Benibo Anabraba, to uphold the dignity of his office, protect the interest of the State, and discharge his duties with honour, respect, and responsibility.
Governor Fubara gave the charge during the swearing-in ceremony of the new SSG, held on Monday at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House, Port Harcourt.
Describing Anabraba’s appointment as an act of divine favour, the Governor said positions of leadership are not attained by our own human effort but by God’s grace in our lives.
“Let me first congratulate you. I’m using the word ‘congratulations’ because a few of us, not by our power but by the special favour of God, find ourselves in exalted positions. It’s not because we are the best, but only by His grace.”
Governor Fubara noted that the Office of the Secretary to the State Government is one of great honour, occupied by only a few since the creation of Rivers State, and urged the new appointee to serve with humility and dedication.
He, however, expressed confidence in Anabraba’s capacity to deliver, citing his past record as a principal officer of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“This position is a rare privilege. Guard that office with honour. Discharge your duties with respect. Protect the interest of Rivers State. When you leave office, let it be with honour, and that only comes through responsible service.
“I know you’re a dedicated person. This opportunity is not for show or display of power. It’s a call to duty,” he cautioned.
The Governor emphasised that the current administration is focused on restoring confidence of the people because peace has been achieved in the State.
He enjoined the new SSG to align with the vision of the administration and contribute meaningfully to the collective progress of Rivers people.
“We are emerging from a very difficult period and must reassure our people that we mean well for them, especially now that peace has returned to Rivers State. By the grace of God, do your work well. Help us succeed in this assignment that God has given to us,” the Governor added.
