Rivers Elections Ruined by Violence and Irregularities

The Independent Election Monitoring Group (IEMG) has reported many abnormalities, including absence of election materials, non-use of electoral registers, violence and uncertain declaration of results in the just concluded Rivers State local government elections, held in spite of court verdicts and security concerns.

The group’s initial report also mentioned cases of arson and violence committed by supporters of the ruling party.

Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, head of the IEMG, informed reporters in Abuja, stressing the critical nature of the situation.

He highlighted that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s perseverance in conducting the elections in spite of court orders and the security situation added to the collapse of law and order in the state.

The Nigerian police were justified in any offence, having withdrawn from the election because of a Federal High Court verdict.

The IEMG has proposed a full investigation into the arson attacks, invalidation of election results, transfer of federal security operatives, and discussion between the governor and opposition parties.

According to Agabi, the Rivers State local government elections and the ensuing acts of arson present a low point in the state’s political history. 

''The denial to honour court rulings, added with the control of electoral processes and violent censorship of opposition, illustrate clear neglect for the rule of law.''

“The state’s political catastrophe will only deteriorate if urgent steps are not taken to restore order, accountability, and respect for the rule of law. The use of arson as a tool for political coercion is not only answerable but dangerous, as it has the potential to worsen into broader conflict.