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Rivers Guber Election: INEC Lists Timeline For Conclusion …Resumes Results Collation, Announcement April 2,5 …Re-Run Polls To Hold April 13 …Court Rejects AAC’s Move To Stop Results Collation
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has finally released the much awaited timeline for the completion of the electoral processes in Rivers State.
Consequently, the commission has said that it would resume collation of Rivers State governorship election results on April 2, and announce the same on April 5.
The Commissioner for Information and Voter Education, Mr Festus Okoye, who disclosed this during a press conference at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, yesterday, said that the venue for the collation and announcement of results would be decided at a meeting with critical stakeholders on March 30.
The INEC national commissioner stated that the commission would hold an inter-agency security meeting on March 29, after which guidelines would be issued on the election, adding that efforts would also be made to undertake the revalidation of polling agents and observers.
He said that the electoral body would conduct supplementary elections on April 13 in local government areas where elections could not hold on March 9.
Okoye explained that such decision to conduct supplementary election where necessary, and in some constituencies not affected by litigation, would depend on the outcome of results collation in the state.
He further said that certificates of return would be issued to successful candidates on April 19.
Okoye also said that the commission was set to deploy national commissioners in various states where supplementary election would take place on March 23, to monitor the process and present certificates of return to the winners.
It would be recalled that supplementary elections had been scheduled for Plateau, Benue, Kano, Sokoto, as well as Adamawa and Bauchi, but litigations have put question marks on the possibility of any rerun polls for Bauchi and Adamawa this weekend.
However, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) elders in Rivers State have come hard on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing it of working with extraneous forces to shift the date of collation of results of the March 9 governorship election to April 2.
They warned that doing so was tantamount to deliberately precipitating constitutional crisis and setting the state on fire.
It would be recalled that INEC had earlier set March 20 date for the commencement of collation of results for the governorship/state assembly election which it suspended as a result controversy over the alleged infamous role played by security agencies at collation centres in the state.
But in what appears a twist, yesterday, the commission announced that it would resume collation of the results on April 2, and announce results arising therefrom on April 5.
The Rivers State African Action Congress (AAC/APC) alliance, led by the Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi had approached an Abuja High Court presided over by Justice Inyang Ekpo for an ex-parte order restraining INEC from going ahead with the collation and announcement of results of the election, a motion the judge rejected.
INEC said it had already collated the results of 17 local government areas and would conclude the collation of remaining councils as soon as possible.
Speaking with newsmen in Port Harcourt, last Wednesday, the elders, including former governor of the state, Sir Celestine Omehia, former minister of transport, Abiye Sekibo, Chairman of the state’s chapter of PDP, Bro Felix Obua and Sergeant Awuse, accused INEC of dancing to the tune of extraneous forces and working to set the state on fire by shifting the collation date to April 2.
The elders described as dishonourable and shameful the decision of the commission to recant from its earlier promise to start the collation of results of the election on March 20.
“What INEC wants to do is to precipitate crisis in Rivers State. It is now clear that it has bowed to extraneous forces,” Obuah said.
Warning that INEC was treading on a dangerous ground with the shift in the date of the collation of results, the elders said INEC’s move has the potential of setting it against the people of the state.
Meanwhile, a coalition under the auspices of Civil Society Election Observers in Rivers State has urged INEC to make provision in extant legislation that would encourage electronic voting in Nigeria in the 2023 General Election.
The coalition, while revealing details of its findings in its iReport Platform during a press conference in Port Harcourt, last Wednesday, emphasised the merit of electronic voting, adding that when adopted, it would reduce election violence and negative activities associated with it.
Speaking in an interview, the group’s spokesperson, Ogunduesi Nwoke, said that electronic voting would solve the challenge of massive rigging and widespread violence during elections.
Nwoke stated that the platform was requesting INEC to set up a panel of inquiry to determine the undue involvement of the Nigerian Army and police in the 2019 General Election, particularly in Rivers State.
Speaking at the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahmood Yakubu, to end the pattern of inconclusive elections and conclude that of Rivers and Bauchi states.
Secondus, who led the National Working Committee of the PDP, during a courtesy visit to Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, urged the electoral body not to cause a crisis with the manoeuvring of results.
“I call on the Chairman of INEC, Prof Mahmood Yakubu not to set this country into crisis because of inconclusive elections. It has never happened in the history of our country.
“This manoeuvring and inconclusive election, even elections concluded and done with, results cannot be collated at the headquarters in Rivers and Bauchi. He should move ahead to conclude these elections immediately so that the people can be at peace and rest.”
However, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, alleged that some persons in the state are making attempts to stop the process of result collation by INEC.
“Attempts have been made to stop collation as announced by INEC. This morning the political parties that contested the elections with us, have all gone to court to seek for stopping of collation. But the court did not grant them.
“But we prefer the move because it is the due process. The pain is the antics by security agencies trying to intimidate collation and electoral officers, inviting them for one offence of the other so as to impede on the collation of results,” Wike added.
Meanwhile, Justice Inyang Ekpo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has denied an application filed by the governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Biokpomabo Awara, seeking to stop the collation of results for the March 9 Rivers State Governorship and House of Assembly elections.
Ekpo held that the application brought before the court was such that the court cannot grant without hearing from the other party.
The plaintiff, represented by Tawo Tawo, in an ex-parte application, had prayed for an order to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from going ahead to resume, conclude and announce the results.
But the judge, after listening to the submission of the plaintiffs, chose not to grant their prayers.
Instead, the judge ordered the plaintiffs to put the respondents on notice on the suit, and fixed March 25, for both the plaintiffs and respondents to appear before him to present their positions.
Earlier, Ekpo had drawn the attention of the plaintiffs’ counsel to news making the round that he had already stopped the electoral body from going ahead to take further action.
The judge also drew the attention of the senior counsel to one Inyang Ewa, who granted the purported order, but the counsel denied the existence of such name as a Federal High Court judge.
Ekpo subsequently reprimanded those behind the fake news, adding that it was wrong for anybody or group to resort to self-help because such had been prohibited in the judiciary.
The plaintiffs had in their originating summons prayed the court to stop INEC from resuming collation and conclusion of the March 9 election results in Rivers State and from declaring any person or group as winners of the poll.
The plaintiffs specifically applied for an order compelling the electoral body to maintain the suspension of the electoral processes as announced on March 10.
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We Support Rivers Workers To Feel Valued, Productive, Says Fubara …Inaugurates Bayelsa Labour House
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has explained that in the heat of political crisis staged against his administration in 2023, he committed to improving the welfare of Rivers workers in order to have a well-motivated workforce to achieve the goals of the Rivers First mantra.
The Governor stated that the resultant industrial harmony has now become unprecedented as workers feel more valued, supported, and resolved to be more productive on an increased efficiency and profitability scale.
Governor Fubara gave the explanation while inaugurating the one-storey twin-building Labour House constructed by the administration of Governor Douye Diri, in Yanagoa City, the Bayelsa State capital, yesterday.
The Governor recalled that while en-route Abuja for a reconciliatory political meeting to find solutions to the 2023 political crisis, his mind kept drifting to what could be done to give hope and cushion the hardship faced by Rivers workers.
Governor Fubara said he made the decision, therefore, to pay Christmas bonus of N100,000 to every worker, across grade levels in December, 2023, and extended the gesture to retirees in 2024.
The Governor stated: “On the 18th of December, the year of Our Lord 2023, I was on my way to Abuja for a reconciliatory meeting, and I was thinking: what will I do for my people – my primary constituency, who are the civil servants?
“We all know that the salary is not enough during the Christmas period. I knew we had a lot of challenges at that time, and it would be difficult for me to do the 13th month.
“But, however, even if I had to do the 13th month, it would also be a cheating to the lower level workers because some of them would have less than N100,000. So, I decided that I was going to do a bonus of N100,000 to all workers. That was my meeting with the Accountant-General while I was on my way to Abuja.”
Governor Fubara said: “After the meeting, I was weakened in my spirit. But on my way back, I said no matter the sadness, I still need to make my people happy.
“And even in the face of that most difficult time of our administration, we made all the civil servants very happy by giving everybody N100, 000 for Christmas that year.”
Governor Fubara pointed to the letter of appreciation written to him by the leaderships of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) due principally to the fact that the gesture was extended to all pensioners in 2024, while also seeking to give him an award of recognition.
The Governor stated that what had been done has contributed to the industrial harmony enjoyed in Rivers State, as according to him, every labour issue has also ended on the dialogue table.
Governor Fubara said: “It is not because we are meeting all their needs, but because we are putting human face to governance. We are not running it like Nebuchadnezzar’s time.
“We are not running it like the Babylonians. We are running it with the Jesus style where love takes the lead over everything. Where love is what should be in front and behind.”
Governor Fubara noted that what the Bayelsa State Government has done shows there is good relationship existing between labour and the administration of Senator Diri.
The Rivers State Governor advised the organised labour in Bayelsa State to consider the gesture, not as a right but a privilege so that they can embrace it wholeheartedly, defend, cherish, and protect it, and ensure that nobody comes between them and the government to cause friction.
Governor Fubara also expressed sadness over the demise of Chief Edwin Clark, a leader, he noted, will be remembered for his positive impact on many aspects of national and régional issues.
He said, “We are here, we just observed a minute silence for the death of our hero, Pa Edwin Clark. What is he remembered for? For his courage, truthfulness, doggedness, and the survival of this region.”
Governor Fubara told Senator Diri: “I want you to continue to stand for same thing, and I can see that you are standing for what is right. That is what history will remember you for.
“History will not remember anyone for any destructive thing, don’t deceive yourself. Money and material things cannot be taken for a good name. So, please continue to do what is right. History and the good people of Bayelsa will forever remember you.”
Governor Fubara assured that his administration will promote a robust relationship between Rivers and Bayelsa, unlike what it was 15 years ago, which is why all legal battles hitherto instituted in court have been withdrawn and would be settled out of court.
He added, “That is the first thing to show our commitment that we are in a mutual relationship and ready to make progress. You said it here, Rivers cannot develop without Bayelsa. Bayelsa also cannot make progress without Rivers. That is the truth.”
In his speech, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, said the project was started by the administration of his predecessor, Senator Seriake Dickson, but quickly added that he has completed it to provide the organised labour in the State a place to conduct their activities, while using it as a platform to voice their concerns, access support services, and engage in constructive dialogue with his administration.
Senator Diri, who commended Governor Fubara for his exemplary labour-friendly policies that have promoted workers’ welfare and industrial harmony, said his administration has so far paid N20billion to servicing pensions and gratuities, hoping to upset all outstanding indebtedness by the end of his second tenure.
In his remarks, Bayelsa State Commissioner for Labour, Employment and Productivity, Mr Odoko Saturday Omiloli, said the magnificent Labour House is a testament of the commitment of the Prosperity Administration of Sen. Diri to promote the welfare and well-being of workers in the state.
In their joint address, both Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Nigeria Labour Congress leaders thanked Governor Diri for building a befitting edifice for them, and pledged to sustain support to his administration.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the passing of former Federal Commissioner for Information and respected leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, Chief Edwin Clark.
Tinubu’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, yesterday.
Tinubu said, “He led an illustrious life marked by dedicated service, at different times, to the nation and his community as a councillor, state and federal cabinet member.
“He was also a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and environmental justice in the Niger Delta.”
The statement reads: “On behalf of the federal government, the President extends his condolences to the Edwin Clark family, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the government of Delta State. President Tinubu mourns Chief Clark and describes his passing as a deeply sobering loss.
“Reflecting on the life of the late statesman, the President says Chief Clark was a towering figure whose influence was felt across Nigeria’s political firmament for nearly six decades. The President states that Chief Clark was a courageous leader who stood for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.
“Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta. He spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic. Pa Clark, a lawyer and educationist, believed in a united Nigeria, and until his last breath, he never stopped reaching out to people from different parts of the country to work together to preserve national unity based on justice and equity.
“As an astute politician, his political opponents never doubted the weight of his words, his confidence, and his conviction when he spoke. Indeed, a patriot has transitioned to the great beyond. History will remember him as a man who fought gallantly for the rights of the people of the Niger Delta, unity in diversity, and true federalism. I know many generations will remain proud of how his efforts contributed to national prosperity and stability.”
Tinubu prayed for divine comfort for Chief Clark’s family, friends, and all those affected by this significant loss.
Clark died on Monday at the age of 97.
His demise was announced by a representative of the family, Prof. C. C. Clark, in a statement Tuesday.
The statement read, “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday, 17th February 2025.
“The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family.”
Clark’s death is coming on the heels of the passing of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died at the age of 96 just a few days ago.
Both Clark and Adebanjo are known for contributing to the political development of the country.
Meanwhile, former President Muhammadu Buhari has also mourned Clark, describing him as an iconic statesman.
Buhari, in a condolence statement yesterday, said he death of Clark had caused deep sorrow in his heart and that of many in the country.
The statement read in part: “Late Chief Edwin Clark was a leader dedicated to reforms whose commitment to the development of his community and the nation would always be remembered. His death caused deep sorrow in his heart, and that of many, and his departure was a loss for the nation.
He is an iconic statesman”.
The former president maintained that the late Ijaw leader had left an indelible imprint on the nation and that in his passing, Nigeria had lost an iconic statesman and a distinguished leader.
He added that his commitment to the country’s unity would be respected by generations to come.
Buhari further urged the Clark family and fellow citizens in the Delta region of the country to uphold his numerous achievements.
Also, former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has described the late PANDEF leader as a man of great conviction.
In a brief message posted via his verified X handle, yesterday, Saraki praised the elder statesman’s unwavering conviction, stating that Clark stood firm in his beliefs until the very end.
“Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark was a man of great conviction who stood firm for what he believed in—right to the very end,” Saraki wrote.
He added that Clark’s passionate advocacy for justice and equity would be deeply missed by Nigeria, the Ijaw nation, and the Niger Delta, for whom he was a tireless advocate.
“His death marks the end of an era—an era of principled leadership. He was one of the movers and shakers of the Second Republic Senate, in which my father served as the Leader of the Senate.
“On behalf of my family, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Clark family, the entire Ijaw community, the people of the Niger Delta, and all Nigerians who mourn the loss of this extraordinary leader,” the former Senate President stated.
A towering figure in Nigerian politics and a relentless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta, Clark was a lawyer, administrator, nationalist, and freedom fighter.
He served as Commissioner for Education in the Mid-Western Region from 1968 to 1971, and later as Commissioner for Finance and Establishment in the defunct Bendel State between 1972 and 1975.
At the federal level, he was appointed Commissioner for Information in 1975 and subsequently became a Senator from 1979 to 1983.
Beyond his political career, Clark was a leading voice for regional and national unity. He was also known for mediating peace among warring communities and politicians in the Niger Delta region.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has explained that his administration is courageously executing strategic projects that are opening up Kalabari land for unprecedented development and economic growth.
Governor Fubara made the explanation when he received on solidarity visit, a delegation of monarchs, political leaders, elders, women and youths of Kalabari Ethnic Nationality, led by the Amanyanabo of Abonnema, King Disreal Gbobo Bobmanuel, at Banquet Hall of Government House in Port Harcourt, last Tuesday.
The Governor stated that while previous administrations avoided executing the original plan for the Trans-Kalabari Road project due to cost implications, he has ventured into it, and driving the process steadily in order to link Kalabari land to the State capital.
Governor said: “Somebody said, if I don’t do it for my people, who will do it for them. We ventured into the Trans-Kalabari Road, we didn’t close our eyes. Our eyes were open because we knew what we were entering into.
“It is not a joke; it is a big project. We believe that at the end of that project, the level of development that it will attract to that line of entry into Kalabari will be very unprecedented.
“Issues of insecurity from our waterways will be reduced because, at that point we are doing road, people won’t be using the river anymore. The cost of living will also be cheaper.”
Governor Fubara further asserted: “So, you understand that your interest, your safety, your development is key to us. It is not about the number of years that we are going to be here; what is important to this government is the impact we make while we are here.”
Responding to their unanimous endorsement to see him run for a second term in office, Governor Fubara said power belongs to God, and He gives it to whoever finds favour in His sight.
Governor Fubara, however, stated that if God so approved of it, even those who are regrouping against him will not see the path God will lead him because they cannot scuttle such plan.
He added, “Power belongs to God. So, you see, I like believing that we don’t have any problem. When we get to the bridge, we will cross it. If we can break the bridge, Moses will come and create a road for us. So, you don’t need to worry.
“We will cross the bridge. We will cross it in a way that our enemies will be struggling; they won’t see where we are passing. So, don’t worry.”
Governor Fubara acknowledged the immense support to him by Rivers Ijaw, and urged particularly the Kalabari people to stand with honour in their unalloyed support for his administration, which will neither abandon them nor fail to deliver quality projects to the people.
Governor Fubara also responded to their requests and informed them that his administration has completed the Emohua/Tema Junction Road project, and ready to inaugurate the Degema Zonal Hospital in May.
He said the Health Commissioner has been directed to assess the state of the Abonnema General Hospital for immediate rehabilitation, while promising to address the issues of shore protection in the area.
Governor Fubara assured that with the Abonnema sandfilling works completed, the phase two will commence that will include Buguma, explaining that the Commissioner for Works has been tasked to do the assessment immediately.
On the request for the establishment of tertiary institution in the area, Governor Fubara said his administration is already inaudated with memos asking that the off-campus of Rivers State University established previously be revised because it has become difficult to sustain them, but quickly added that the government will consider the establishment of a viable institution that will provide technical and entrepreneurial skills to the people in a sustained manner.
Reading the address of Kalabari Ethnic Nationality, Chief Pawariso Samuel Horsfall, announced that the entire Kalabari people have unanimously endorsed Governor Fubara for a second term, and vowed to mobilise Rivers people to ensure electoral victory for him in the 2027 gubernatorial election.
In his speech, the leader of the delegation and Amanyanabo of Abonnema, King Disreal Gbobo Bobmanuel, expressed the profound thanks of the Kalabari people to Governor Fubara for his genuine love for them, as evidenced in the types and quality of development projects delivered or being executed in the area.