Rivers State on Saturday, August 30, conducted Local Government Area (LGA) elections across its 23 councils, with voters turning out to elect new chairmen and councillors.
Organized by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), the exercise commenced in the morning with materials and officials deployed to various polling units. Security agencies, including the police and other sister organizations, were heavily mobilized to maintain order and prevent disruptions.
Our reporter monitored voting in parts of Port Harcourt and observed an encouraging turnout. At Township School, Churchill Road, Ward 5, voters arrived steadily. At Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borokiri, Ward 2, residents patiently queued to cast their ballots under the watchful eyes of party agents and observers. Similarly, at Town Hall Rumurlumini, Ward 9, more voters joined as the day progressed, with election officials attending to them in an orderly manner.
While many polling units saw active participation, some recorded modest turnout. In several neighborhoods, residents engaged in leisure activities such as football rather than voting. Those who opted out cited disenchantment with the electoral process or a perceived lack of impact from previous local administrations.
Despite these challenges, the elections were largely peaceful. Party agents and civil society observers monitored the process, and election officials carried out accreditation and voting efficiently. Minor delays occurred in a few units due to the late arrival of materials and staff, but they did not affect the overall conduct of the polls.
Security presence remained visible across major flashpoints, with patrol vehicles and personnel ensuring a calm environment. No major incidents of violence were reported.
As at the time of filing this report, results were still being collated, with RSIEC expected to make official announcements in the coming hours.
