Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has rejected the August 30 council election in Rivers State, describing it as “a travesty to the very notion of elective democracy.”
In a statement, Atiku condemned what he called the “shameful and shambolic manner” in which the exercise was conducted, alleging that the APC was determined to secure political advantage at all costs.
The poll saw the APC win 20 council seats, while the PDP secured three. Reports across Port Harcourt and other constituencies indicated low voter turnout, with some polling stations deserted throughout the exercise.
Observers noted that most of the winners were loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, giving him firm control of both PDP and APC structures in the state. Political analysts say the outcome leaves suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara isolated as he prepares to return to office on September 18.
Dr Nwodim Obinna of the University of Port Harcourt described the development as “an effective subjection of Fubara” and urged the governor to tread carefully. Civil society groups also argued that the election effectively clipped the governor’s wings.
Wike, however, maintains that with the election concluded, the coast is clear for the state to return to democratic governance.
