Saturday, October 5, 2024 5:07 pm
Despite early morning protests, the people of Rivers State and prominent stakeholders flocked to polling centers across the 23 Local Government Areas to exercise their civic duty.
Okafor Ofiebor/Port Harcourt
In Ahoada-West LGA, voters were seen carrying out their responsibility peacefully. Notable figures also cast their ballots, including Hon. Lazarus Gogoteh Nteogwuile, Action People’s Party APP) chairmanship candidat(e, who voted at Unyeada Ward 6, Unit 11.
Similarly, Hon. Barr. John Otamiri, APP chairmanship candidate for Etche Local Government Area, cast his vote at Polling Unit 004, Ward 5 Okomoko/Umuanyagu/Okoroagu at 8:15 am. After voting, Otamiri expressed satisfaction with the election process, describing it as “free, fair, and credible.”
“The electoral process has been seamless, and I commend the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for their efforts,” Otamiri said. “I urge them to ensure collation of votes is seamless and transparent.”
Otamiri also applauded voters for turning out despite protests and commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for conducting the council polls.
Former Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, was also spotted casting his vote at Unit 30, Ward 10, Npkolu Oroworukwo Town Hall, Port Harcourt City LGA.
Earlier in the day, protesters gathered at the RSIEC Office in Port Harcourt and Ikwerre Road, demanding a halt to the elections. Governor Fubara, however, insisted on proceeding with the polls, criticizing the Nigerian Police for failing to provide adequate security.
The elections are ongoing, with results expected soon.
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