Local government elections were successfully conducted in Rivers State, a critical step aimed at restoring full democratic governance and ensuring the disbursement of funds to the grassroots. Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, expressed satisfaction with the exercise, which followed the Supreme Court's annulment of the October 2023 election previously held under suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Minister Wike commended President Bola Tinubu for facilitating the elections, emphasizing their necessity. He explained that a Supreme Court ruling stipulated the absence of caretaker committees in local governments, making elected officials mandatory for councils to receive funds directly from the Federation Account. Without these elections, local governments would face a funding crisis, particularly after the six-month emergency rule is lifted on September 18.

Addressing journalists after casting his vote at Polling Unit 007, Ward 9 (Rumuepirikom Kingdom), Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Wike acknowledged variations in voter turnout. He noted that commercial areas typically see lower participation, while residential and rural areas experience a significantly higher turnout. He expressed his impression with the enthusiasm from rural communities, indicating widespread happiness among Rivers people to participate.

Wike further dismissed concerns about the Supreme Court potentially invalidating the current elections. He clarified that the previous October 2023 election was legally null, whereas the ongoing process is "clear and legally valid." This assurance, he stated, removed worries and encouraged citizens to vote for their chosen representatives at the local government level, ensuring the legitimacy of the outcomes.

The successful conduct of these polls is crucial for stabilizing governance at the grassroots. Wike highlighted that with elected officials in place, local governments are now guaranteed to receive their funds directly from the Federation Account. This step is vital to complete the three tiers of government – governor, state assembly, and local government – by the time the emergency rule concludes on September 18, ensuring a comprehensive return to democratic order.

Despite Wike's satisfaction, the election was characterized by widespread voter apathy, particularly in Obio/Akpor and other parts of Port Harcourt Metropolis. Many polling units observed only a handful of voters, with the majority of the electorate opting to stay away, some even turning sections of roads into makeshift football pitches during the restriction of movement. Residents like Marvel Worika of Rumigbo described the exercise as a "charade," citing predetermined outcomes and a lack of choice, with only one candidate often on the ballot in many local government areas.

Chief Tony Okocha, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), acknowledged the low turnout as neither strange nor unexpected, stating that some individuals always choose indifference during elections. He urged the declared winners to embrace inclusivity, be people-oriented, and prioritize developmental projects in their respective councils, aligning with the Federal Government's Renewed Hope Agenda, thus holding the people's trust.

Ultimately, the Rivers State local government elections, despite mixed voter engagement, are a significant milestone. They aim to secure crucial funding for local councils and complete the state’s democratic structure, ensuring stable and representative governance at the grassroots as the state transitions fully from the emergency rule.