The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has commended the conduct of Saturday’s local government elections, describing the exercise as peaceful, orderly, and a step toward restoring democratic governance at the grassroots.
Ibas, who monitored the polls in several areas including Emohua, Ahoada East, and Port Harcourt, noted that voters and electoral officials conducted themselves responsibly, creating a calm and secure atmosphere across the state.
“I am very happy with what I have witnessed today. From the impressive voter turnout to the orderly conduct of election officials, the entire process has been peaceful,” he told journalists. “I am confident that the results will reflect the will of the people and stand as credible records for our state.”
He added that reports from all 23 local government areas were consistent with his observations, stressing that the elections showed Rivers people’s strong desire for grassroots leadership.
“Indigenes of Rivers State want and deserve leaders at the local level whom they can identify with. Facilitating this tier of democracy is at the heart of my mandate—to put the state back on a stable, democratic path and empower the people,” Ibas said.
The peaceful poll comes months after the Supreme Court nullified the October 5, 2024 local government elections held under the administration of the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
