Rivers State witnessed peaceful but low-turnout bye-elections in Ahoada East and Khana Local Government Areas, with reports of voter apathy across several polling units.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted the polls to fill vacant seats in the State House of Assembly following the resignation of Edison Ehie, who represented Ahoada East Constituency, and the death of Dinebari Loolo, who represented Khana State Constituency II.
Despite the generally calm atmosphere, turnout was low in many areas, with minimal security presence observed at some polling units.
Ahead of the election, Governor Siminalayi Fubara had urged eligible voters in the affected constituencies to participate actively in the exercise. In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, the governor described the election as a “family affair” and encouraged residents to support candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Everybody should be law abiding and avoid doing anything that will disturb the peace during the exercise. It is actually a family election and there is no need for rancour and acrimony,” Fubara stated.
The Rivers State Police Command had assured residents of adequate security throughout the election period. The command’s spokesperson, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, said security personnel would be deployed to strategic locations, polling units and major roads to prevent violence and electoral malpractice.
The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, also advised political parties, candidates and supporters to shun violence and adhere str
ictly to the provisions of the Electoral Act.
At Ochuba Ward 6, Units 2–6 in Ahoada East, voter turnout was notably low. Similarly, at Ward 5, Unit 18 in Edeoha community, voting commenced around 11 a.m., with reports of apathy and limited security presence.
However, the APC candidate for Ahoada East Constituency II, Napoleon Ukalikpe, commended voters for what he described as impressive turnout in Ogbelle Town, Unit 1, Ward 9. He expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the poll, noting that the process was smooth and orderly.
“I am very happy with the turnout. There is security everywhere. There has so far been no disturbances,” he said, expressing confidence in victory.
In Khana, the exercise was also reported to be peaceful, though turnout varied across polling units.
As at the time of filing this report, INEC had yet to announce the results for the two constituencies.
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
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