Port Harcourt, Rivers State – A group of protesters gathered outside the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) office on Friday, calling for the Local Government elections scheduled for October 5th to proceed without delay. Undeterred by the heavy rain, the demonstrators set up canopies and occupied one side of Aba Road, chanting “Election must hold!” as they drummed and sang in unison.
The protest followed Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s unexpected visit to RSIEC in the early hours of Friday. The visit was in response to recent attempts by rogue police officers to disrupt the upcoming election by attempting to seize sensitive electoral materials. The Governor’s intervention has heightened political tensions as the people of Rivers State await the polls.
Protesters, some holding banners with messages supporting the election, insisted on the need for transparency and fairness in the electoral process, expressing their determination to protect their democratic rights. Many voiced concerns over potential interference in the election process, following the police withdrawal from providing security at polling stations as directed by recent court orders.
Despite the wet conditions, the protest remained peaceful, with security officials keeping an eye on the proceedings. The demonstrators have vowed to remain in place until they receive assurances that the elections will be held as planned, reflecting the deep sense of urgency and determination among residents to see the electoral process go ahead without further disruptions.
Governor Fubara, alongside other state officials, has urged for calm and assured the public that the government remains committed to ensuring a free, fair, and credible election. As the election date draws near, all attention is now focused on the preparations and whether the people’s determination to have their voices heard will lead to a successful and peaceful electoral outcome in Rivers State.
