Rivers State Local Government Elections In Crisis – Opposition Alleges Disruption Plot

A coalition of opposition lawmakers has sounded the alarm over an alleged scheme by pro-Wike legislators to obstruct the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State. According to reports, these lawmakers are allegedly using questionable legislative tactics and court injunctions to interfere with the electoral process.

Opposition Lawmakers Expose Alleged Election Disruption Plot

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP – Imo State) accused lawmakers aligned with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, of making deliberate attempts to stall the electoral process and hinder the implementation of the 2025 Rivers State budget, despite a Supreme Court ruling upholding the process.

Ugochinyere alleged that these legislators are working towards amending the Local Government Administration Law to reinstate former local government chairmen whose tenure has ended.

“Their goal is clear—to prevent the elections from happening so that these former LGA chairmen can retain their positions beyond their lawful tenure. However, we want to assure the people of Rivers State that the elections will proceed as scheduled by the electoral commission. No illegal amendment will stop the process.”

The opposition further revealed that pro-Wike lawmakers were allegedly planning to secure a court order to halt the elections, mirroring previous legal obstructions used to destabilize governance in the state.

Rivers State Governance at Risk Due to Budget Boycott

Ugochinyere also accused these lawmakers of deliberately avoiding the 2025 budget presentation, thereby crippling governance.

“The Governor invited the House of Assembly members for discussions—something Wike himself would never do. Despite this, they boycotted the meeting and ignored his calls. The Speaker refused to respond, further proving that their main agenda is to create instability and hardship for the people of Rivers State.”

Despite these obstacles, he commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his efforts to uphold the Supreme Court ruling and maintain peace. According to him, Fubara has remained committed to governance and reconciliation despite ongoing political provocations.

Accusations Against Wike and the Fight to Protect Democracy

The lawmakers accused Wike of attempting to maintain political dominance over Rivers State rather than prioritizing development and stability.

“Wike is not interested in peace or progress; his main concern is control. Since he is no longer in charge, he wants to halt all progress. The crisis surrounding local government elections and the Assembly conflicts are all part of his broader strategy to hold the state hostage.”

The opposition vowed that the people of Rivers State would resist any anti-democratic actions aimed at destabilizing the state. They urged citizens to stay vigilant and protect democratic institutions.

“We are nearing the resolution of this crisis, which is why certain political actors are becoming more desperate. However, the people are standing firm. Our party leaders, governors, and the National Working Committee are working together to end this political chaos. Rivers State will not be destabilized.”

The lawmakers reaffirmed their unwavering support for Governor Fubara and urged the opposition to adhere to democratic principles rather than resorting to unconstitutional maneuvers.