The Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, on Sunday officially sworn-in the 23 chairmen who had been declared victorious in Saturday’s Local Government Council elections, marking a significant moment for the state’s political landscape.
Following the election results, the Rivers State Independence Electoral Commission (RSIEC) had declared the Action Peoples Party (APP) as the winner of all 23 local government area chairmanship seats. This outcome solidified the APP’s presence in the local governance of Rivers State.
At the swearing-in ceremony, which took place at the government house in Port Harcourt, the state capital, Governor Fubara emphasized that any controversies that had previously surrounded the Rivers LGA elections were now laid to rest, and the state was ready to move forward.
During his address to the newly sworn-in chairpersons, Fubara also issued a warning, advising them to be cautious of potential threats of violence as they assume office on Monday. He urged the officials to remain calm and level-headed in the face of any unrest that might arise.
“I’m fully aware of plans to mobilise groups of around 20 people per unit to confront you when you return to your local government headquarters,” Fubara said, warning the chairmen about possible confrontations.
“If they resort to violence, do not engage them. The peace of this state is of the utmost importance. Everyone knows what these groups are planning, but I urge you to follow my approach and prioritize peace above all else.”
Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar commended Governor Similaye Fubara and the people of Rivers State for resisting what he referred to as political intimidation and judicial manipulations by conducting the elections and ensuring the leaders at the local government level were duly elected.
Atiku’s remarks came in the context of the recently concluded Rivers State Local Government Council elections, where he praised the people’s resolve to uphold democracy despite external pressures.
In a post on his verified X handle on Sunday, Atiku wrote: “With the successful conclusion of the local government election in Rivers State, the era of political intimidation and judicial chicanery has passed, and the state is now free to pursue governance with a renewed sense of purpose.
“From the vibrant streets of Port Harcourt to the serene shores of Onne, the people have spoken in unity, sending a clear message that nothing is stronger than democracy!
“As predicted, it has now become clear that the citizens of Rivers are both discerning and steadfast in their refusal to accept any form of political oppression, harassment, or interference from self-serving political godfathers.
“I offer my sincere congratulations to the newly elected local government leaders, and I encourage them to prioritize the welfare of the people above all else. They should avoid the pitfalls of tyranny and misguided ambition in their political careers.
“I also wish to commend the brave and determined people of Rivers State for their perseverance in the face of adversity, ensuring that the elections were conducted with peace and integrity.”
Atiku further praised Governor Fubara’s steadfast leadership, saying, “Governor Fubara has shown his unwavering commitment to serving the people’s interests by upholding the sanctity of the local government elections, even in the face of significant challenges and provocations.
“In the grand scheme of things, the true winners of this election are the people, whose fundamental right to choose their leaders has been preserved and respected within our democratic framework.”