Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has affirmed the upcoming Local Government Elections scheduled for October 5, 2024, emphasizing that there are no legal obstacles hindering the process. His commitment comes amid various concerns circulating regarding the conduct of the elections. Addressing political parties, candidates, and voters, Fubara encouraged active participation, urging the electorate to prepare to elect their preferred representatives, who will take charge of local governance. Fubara’s assurance highlights his administration’s dedication to democratic processes and local governance.
Fubara made these remarks following an inspection of the Trans-Kalabari Road project, a significant infrastructure endeavor aimed at enhancing connectivity within Rivers State. This project, valued at N225.1 billion, stretches 12.5 kilometers, linking the Nkpor-Aker Road Roundabout to the Bakana community with an over-bridge and other vital locations in the Kalabari region. While inspecting the construction progress, Fubara expressed mixed feelings, noting that the challenging terrain has complicated the project’s execution; still, he underscored its importance as part of his legacy initiatives and stressed the urgency of its completion.
During his tour, Governor Fubara also met with officials from the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), including its Chairman, Justice Adolphus Enebeli. He reinforced that the election would proceed as planned, relying on a previously issued order that mandates the commission to conduct the elections and receive support from security agencies. Fubara expressed confidence in this legal backing, suggesting that it would lead to a credible electoral process, which he anticipates to be one of the best in the state’s history. His transparency reflects an acknowledgment of the public’s right to fair elections.
In his remarks to the RSIEC staff, Fubara addressed rumors about potential disruptions to the electoral process, cautioning those who might seek to undermine the commission’s activities. He reiterated that the electoral agency operates solely in the interest of Rivers State and its citizens, and any attempts to destabilize it are unacceptable. Fubara’s comments resonate with a broader commitment to ensuring a democratic environment where election processes can be executed without fear of interference.
Fubara underscored the importance of responsibility and integrity within the RSIEC, as any misstep in the electoral process could have lasting consequences for the community. He depicted himself as an ally of the commission, stating that any issues requiring attention would be met with his direct intervention, reflecting his hands-on approach to governance. The governor’s insistence on the sanctity of the electoral process emphasizes the vital role it plays in maintaining democracy and trust in public institutions.
In conclusion, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s proactive stance towards the Rivers State Local Government Elections unites infrastructural development with democratic engagement. By urging political stakeholders to prepare for a credible electoral process, and communicating his commitment to transparency, he is setting the stage for a significant political exercise in October 2024. His emphasis on the importance of the Trans-Kalabari Road project further enhances the narrative of his administration striving not just for political stability but also for tangible development that benefits the societal framework of Rivers State.
