Wike Hails Rivers LG Polls, Praises Supreme Court Compliance

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has commended the smooth conduct of the Rivers State local government elections, describing the exercise as a milestone in grassroots democracy and financial autonomy for councils.

Wike, who cast his ballot on Saturday at Polling Unit 007, Ward 9, Rumuepirikom in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, said the polls were held in line with the Supreme Court’s ruling that outlawed caretaker committees in local governments.

According to him, the elections would ensure that funds from the Federation Account go directly to democratically elected councils, thereby strengthening governance at the local level.

The minister praised President Bola Tinubu for creating the enabling environment for the elections to hold, noting that the development marked a significant departure from past practices.

He also applauded the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for what he described as a “well-organised and credible exercise,” while appreciating residents for their impressive turnout across rural and urban areas.

“I want to thank RSIEC for delivering a successful election. In my community, the turnout has been encouraging. Reports from rural areas also show that people participated actively,” Wike said.