The recent local government elections in Rivers State have marked an important change for the Action Peoples Party (APP), which has gained a strong presence in the area.
Yet it holds more regarding how the cold war between former Governor Nyesom Wike and incumbent Governor, Siminalayi Fubara is progressing.
On October 6, 2024, Governor Siminalayi Fubara officially swore in the newly elected chairmen for the 23 local government areas, with 22 representing the APP and one from the Action Alliance.
This win shows a new direction in local governance that many residents have been looking for.
During former Governor Nyesom Wike’s time in office, dissatisfaction grew among the people.
Many residents were unhappy with issues like poor roads, limited access to healthcare, and broken promises.
This discontent pushed voters to seek change, leading them to support the APP in the recent elections.
Winning The Chairmanship Election
The APP ran a campaign that connected with local concerns, directly engaging with communities to understand their needs.
This approach helped build trust and strong relationships with voters.
By focusing on important local issues — like improving roads and healthcare services — the APP presented itself as a reliable choice dedicated to the well-being of residents.
War Between Fubara And Wike
However, the aftermath of the elections has been turbulent.
The newly elected APP chairmen, loyal to Fubara, faced violent opposition from thugs trying to prevent them from taking office.
Reports indicate that there were attacks on local government secretariats, with vehicles set ablaze and properties vandalised, including a fire at the Eleme LGA secretariat.
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Fubara had previously warned about the threat of violence against these officials, underscoring the ongoing instability.
This unrest raises serious concerns about security in Nigeria and reflects a political class that often prioritises personal power struggles over the needs of citizens.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Fubara has had a strained relationship with Wike, complicated by Wike’s influence over many members of the House of Assembly.
The situation escalated in October when the Rivers House of Assembly complex was bombed, followed by its demolition by the government two months later.
Some critics said it was all to deflate plans of impeachment of the governor. For many, Fubara had deviated from being a poppet of the former governor who had allegedly influenced his emergence as governor.
The situation in Rivers highlights the need for Nigerian politicians to rethink their priorities.
Ideally, the main aim of governance should be to improve the lives of citizens, not to engage in personal battles for control or godfatherism.