Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has described the outcome of the recent local government elections in Rivers State as a decisive rejection of political oppression and godfatherism.
The elections were held amid a deepening rift between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
On Saturday, Adolphus Enebeli, the chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), announced that the Action Peoples Party (APP) secured victories in 22 of the 23 local government areas, with the Action Alliance (AA) winning in one.
The elections witnessed APP candidates, who had recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following a directive from Governor Fubara, sweeping the majority of the council seats.
This shift in political alignment comes as tensions remain high between Fubara and Wike, his predecessor and former ally. Despite Wike’s support for Fubara during the 2023 governorship election, the two leaders have since fallen out.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Atiku, who also had a falling out with Wike ahead of the 2023 general elections, praised the local government election results, framing them as a victory for democratic governance.
“With the conclusion of the local government election in Rivers state, the shadows of political intimidation and judicial chicanery have dissipated, paving the way for the noble pursuit of governance to commence in the state,” Atiku said.
The former vice-president applauded the people of Rivers State for standing firm against political oppression, noting that their participation demonstrated a clear rejection of political manipulation.
“The citizens of Rivers are astute and resolute, unwavering in their rejection of any form of political oppression, harassment, or the machinations of self-serving godfathers,” Atiku said, in what appeared to be a subtle reference to Wike’s alleged dominance in Rivers’ political affairs.
Atiku also congratulated the newly elected local government leaders, urging them to prioritize the welfare of their constituents and avoid political tyranny.
“I commend the resilient people of Rivers State for their steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that yesterday’s election unfolded with peace and integrity,” Atiku said, while also acknowledging Governor Fubara for safeguarding the integrity of the elections.
The former vice-president’s remarks add further weight to the significance of the elections, positioning them as a turning point in Rivers State’s political landscape, as newly elected leaders are now expected to focus on governance and the needs of their communities.