By Remi Johnson
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the local government elections in Rivers State.
Speaking shortly after casting his vote at Polling Unit 007, Ward 9 (Rumuepirikom Kingdom) in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Wike commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for ensuring a smooth process and lauded residents for turning out in large numbers.
“I want to thank RSIEC for successfully conducting the local government elections. This is my community, and I have seen the turnout here and in other residential units as well. Naturally, in commercial areas, the turnout may not be as high, but overall, the participation has been impressive,” he said.
Wike also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring that the elections were held in line with the Supreme Court’s directive, which declared caretaker committees in local governments unlawful.
“The Supreme Court has made it clear that without elected officials, local governments cannot access funds from the Federation Account.
“Now that elections are being conducted, elected representatives will emerge, and local governments will receive their allocations directly. This will help stabilize governance at the grassroots,” Wike noted.
The minister dismissed fears of legal setbacks, emphasizing that the ongoing process was consistent with constitutional provisions.
“There was no election before, and that was why the Supreme Court nullified it. What we are witnessing today is a legitimate process, and that is why people are freely coming out to cast their votes,” he added.
Wike further stressed that the successful conduct of the elections would strengthen democracy at the local level, especially as the state prepares for the end of the emergency rule in September.
“By the time the governor and the State Assembly return, it will not be complete without elected local government representatives. That is why this election is important, and we must all support it to stabilize grassroots governance,” he said.
Wike reiterated his confidence in the electoral process and applauded the enthusiasm of Rivers people who, according to him, were excited to elect their leaders at the grassroots level.