By 9jaeye 
The Rivers State Local Government election, scheduled for October 5, 2024, have become a focal point of intense political tension. At the heart of this turmoil is a fierce power struggle between the incumbent Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Both political heavyweights are fiercely battling for control over the state’s political landscape, with the elections serving as a platform for their rivalry.
Fubara’s Determination to Proceed
Governor Fubara has remained resolute in his decision to proceed with the elections, despite facing significant opposition from Wike’s camp. He cited the Supreme Court ruling mandating that all local governments must have democratically elected leaders instead of caretaker committees. Fubara emphasized that failure to conduct the elections would violate this court ruling and potentially result in the withholding of statutory allocations from the state’s 23 local governments.
Fubara has assured the public that, despite ongoing legal battles and protests, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) remains fully prepared to conduct the elections. He has urged citizens to participate in the process, highlighting the importance of ensuring democratic leadership at the grassroots level.
Wike’s Legal and Political Objections
On the other side, former Governor Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has openly opposed the elections. Wike’s loyalists, led by Tony Okocha, have raised legal objections, arguing that the electoral process is flawed. They cited a Federal High Court ruling that bars the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies from providing support for the elections. Wike’s faction continues leading protests in Port Harcourt, demanding that officials postpone the elections until they resolve the legal disputes.
Wike has not shied away from mocking Fubara’s political camp, questioning their ability to secure victory and accusing them of manipulating the process for their own benefit. His continued influence within the state adds further complexity to an already volatile political situation.
The Stakes of the Election
The local government elections, initially intended to establish leadership at the grassroots level, have now become a battleground for political dominance between Fubara and Wike. Both leaders view the Rivers State election as a referendum on their power, with Fubara looking to solidify his authority as governor and Wike seeking to maintain his influence in Rivers State politics.
The outcome of these elections will significantly shape the future political landscape of Rivers State. Whether Fubara emerges victorious or Wike manages to assert his dominance once again, the results will have far-reaching implications for the state’s governance.
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