The Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara on Sunday sworn-in the 23 chairmen who were declared winners of the Saturday’s Local Government Council elections into office.
Recall that the Rivers State Independence Electoral Commission (RSIEC) on Saturday declared the Action Peoples Party (APP) the winner of all 23 local government area chairmanship seats in the recent LGA election.
During the swearing-in ceremony held at the government house in Port Harcourt, the state capital, Fubara declared that the controversy surrounding the recent Rivers LGA elections is effectively over.
Addressing the newly sworn-in officials, Fubara warned of potential violence against them when they resume their duties on Monday. He urged the chairpersons to remain calm and calculative in the face of any confrontations.
“I’m aware that there are plans to mobilise 20 people per unit to confront you when you return to your local government headquarters,” he stated.
“If they come with violence, avoid them. The peace of this state is too important to us. Everyone knows what they are planning, but I urge you to follow my approach.”
Meanwhile, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has hailed the Rivers State Governor, Similaye Fubara and the entire people of the state for rejecting what he described as political intimidation and judicial chicanery by going ahead to elect leaders at the local government level.
Atiku said this against the backdrop of the just concluded Rivers State Local Governent Council elections.
In a post on his verified X handle, on Sunday, Atiku wrote: “With the conclusion of the local government election in Rivers State, the shadows of political intimidation and judicial chicanery have dissipated, paving the way for the noble pursuit of governance to commence in the State.
“From the bustling heart of Port Harcourt to the tranquil shores of Onne, the populace has spoken in harmonious unison, affirming that nothing can better democracy!
“As prophesied, it has now been revealed that the citizens of Rivers are astute and resolute, unwavering in their rejection of any form of political oppression, harassment, or the machinations of self-serving godfathers.
“As I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected local government leaders, I urge them to wear the welfare of the people as their foremost badge of honour, shunning the path of tyranny and delusional ambition in their political endeavors.
“Moreover, I commend the resilient people of Rivers State for their steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that yesterday’s election unfolded with peace and integrity.
“I must also applaud Governor Fubara for his unwavering commitment to the people’s interests, safeguarding the sanctity of the local government elections even amidst provocative challenges.
“In the grand tapestry of this election, it is ultimately the people who emerge victorious, their sacred right to choose their leaders firmly upheld within the framework of our democratic process.”
