WAFFI TV | Politics

Reject Rivers Local Government Election Results~ Atiku Tells Opposition Parties

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized Saturday’s local government elections in Rivers State, denouncing the process as “an awful absurdity” and calling on opposition parties to reject the declared results. On Sunday, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) announced that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had won 20 of the 23 local government areas (LGAs), while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured victories in three—Obio-Akpor, Port Harcourt City (PHALGA), and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA). Notably, Governor Siminalayi Fubara lost his Opobo-Nkoro LGA to the APC. In a statement shared via his official X account, Atiku condemned the conduct of the polls, saying it posed a grave threat to Nigeria’s democratic system. “The local government election conducted by the occupation government in Rivers State is an awful absurdity and a travesty to the very notion of elective democracy,” he wrote. The former VP accused the APC of manipulating the process to gain undue political advantage. “By the shameful and shambolic manner in which the occupation government went ahead to conduct local government elections in Rivers State, it is clear that the ruling APC party is not leaving anyone in doubt that it is prepared to throw caution to the wind in order to achieve an inordinate political advantage,” Atiku said. The PDP presidential candidate in the 2023 general election further called on Nigerians and the international community to take note of the development. “It therefore becomes necessary to call the attention of well-meaning Nigerians, international community and all friends and partners of Nigeria to the dangerous curve that the President Bola Tinubu regime is taking our dear country,” he added. Atiku also urged opposition parties in Rivers to reject the results, insisting the election lacked legitimacy. “I will also call on all opposition parties in Rivers State to reject the local government election on the premise that the occupation government that conducted the exercise is extraneous to our laws, with absolutely no legitimacy to undertake such a crucial and sensitive assignment,” he said. He expressed solidarity with the people of Rivers State, describing them as victims of political brigandage. “In the same breath, I wish to share my unflinching solidarity with the good people of Rivers State, who are currently victims of political brigandry to a power cabal which is bent on overturning their democratic rights at all cost,” Atiku stated.

9/1/2025, 7:01:52 AM

Rivers LGA Poll Results: APC Wins 20, PDP 3 Chairmanship Seats

The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of Saturday’s Local Government Area (LGA) chairmanship elections in 20 out of the state’s 23 LGAs. The ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) managed victories in just three LGAs — Obio-Akpor, Port Harcourt City (PHALGA), and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA). In a major upset, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s home base, Opobo-Nkoro LGA, was won by the APC. Announcing the results on Sunday at RSIEC headquarters along Aba Road, Port Harcourt, the commission’s chairman, Dr. Michael Odey, listed the official breakdown of votes across the state. **Official RSIEC Results:** * **Abua-Odual:** APC (Ofori Owoalabi) – 28,755 votes * **Ahoada East:** APC (Solomon Achoma) – 54,509 votes * **Ahoada West:** APC (Eugene Epelle) – 84,125 votes * **Akuku-Toru:** APC (Bob Fubara) – 63,593 votes * **Andoni:** APC (Lucky Promise) – 126,181 votes * **Asari-Toru:** APC (George Onegiyeofori) – 56,383 votes * **Bonny:** APC (Abinye Blessing Pepple) – 13,543 votes * **Degema:** APC (Michael John Williams) – 61,536 votes * **Eleme:** APC (Obarilomate Ollor) – 77,452 votes * **Emohua:** APC (Chidi Lloyd) – 114,380 votes * **Etche:** APC (Njoku Boniface) – 100,649 votes * **Gokana:** APC (Dekor Confidence) – 96,478 votes * **Ikwerre:** APC (Charles Wobodo) – 62,746 votes * **Khana:** APC (Bariere Thomas) – 156,027 votes * **Obio-Akpor:** PDP (Gift Worlu) – 328,823 votes * **Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA):** PDP (Shedrack Ogbogu) – 51,051 votes * **Ogu-Bolo:** APC (Vincent Nemioboka) – 36,374 votes * **Okrika:** APC (Akuro Tobin) – 32,285 votes * **Omuma:** APC (Obasi Uchechukwu) – 38,530 votes * **Opobo-Nkoro:** APC (Jame A. Jame) – 38,822 votes * **Oyigbo:** APC (Okechukwu Akara) – 101,495 votes * **Port Harcourt City (PHALGA):** PDP (Allwell Ihunda) – 235,054 votes * **Tai:** APC (Mbakpone Okpe) – 70,080 votes With this outcome, the APC now controls the overwhelming majority of local councils in Rivers State, signaling a dramatic realignment in the state’s political landscape.

8/31/2025, 7:04:49 PM

Wike Tightens Grip On Rivers Politics As Fubara Camp Shuns LG Polls

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, appears to have regained firm control of the political structure in Rivers State following the boycott of Saturday’s local government elections by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his loyalists. The exercise, conducted across the 23 local government areas of the state, was largely seen as a litmus test of strength between the two power blocs—Wike, a former governor of the state, and his estranged political godson, Fubara. Reports from Port Harcourt and other parts of the state indicate that the polls went on under heavy security presence, with candidates loyal to Wike’s camp of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) dominating the ballot. Election observers noted a relatively low voter turnout, which many attributed to the boycott declared by Fubara’s supporters, who dismissed the process as compromised and “tilted in favour of predetermined outcomes.” In some wards, loyalists of the governor reportedly staged peaceful protests, calling for a postponement of the elections until what they termed “the constitutional crisis between the state executive and legislature is resolved.” Political analysts say the boycott may have inadvertently handed Wike an edge, as his loyalists now occupy strategic positions in the state’s grassroots political machinery. Given the crucial role local government structures play in mobilizing support ahead of national elections, this development could further weaken Fubara’s grip on the state PDP. A senior political commentator, Dr. Adokiye Obele, described the situation as “a turning point in the Rivers political chess game.” According to him: “Governor Fubara’s absence and the decision of his camp to boycott the elections is a costly gamble. It has left the field open for Wike’s men to consolidate. Unless the governor recalibrates his strategy, he risks becoming politically isolated within his own state.” The tension between Wike and Fubara has deepened in recent months, with both men locked in a protracted supremacy battle over control of the state assembly and the party structure. Despite the intervention of the presidency and other political elders, the rift remains unresolved. Saturday’s outcome is expected to further reshape political alignments in Rivers ahead of the 2027 general elections, with many stakeholders watching to see whether the PDP can survive the widening cracks in its ranks. Meanwhile, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has promised to announce official results soon, even as opposition parties and civil society groups have already called for more transparency in the collation process.

8/31/2025, 6:52:10 AM

Jonathan’s Brother Denies Report Of Ex President Stepping Aside From 2027 Race

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has refuted claims that he has withdrawn from the 2027 presidential race. The clarification came after a news report alleged that the Otuoke-born leader had decided not to contest in order to preserve Southern unity. Though Jonathan has yet to make a formal declaration, there are strong indications that he has been holding consultations nationwide in pursuit of a possible second-term bid. On Friday, his cousin, Azibaola Robert, took to his verified Facebook page to dismiss the report, emphasizing that Jonathan never stated he would stay out of the 2027 race. Azibaola was reacting to a Newsweek Nigeria story titled “Jonathan Rejects Pressure to Contest in 2027, Says He Won’t Be Used Against Southern Unity.” He described the publication as false and urged Nigerians to disregard it. He further stressed that the so-called “aide of Jonathan” quoted in the report does not exist. According to him, while Jonathan has not declared his candidacy, he equally has not excluded himself from the contest. “The former president has made it clear that he would not yield to calls not to run, since those making such admonitions had selfish motives,” Azibaola said, without specifying when or how Jonathan might formally declare his ambition.

8/29/2025, 5:16:36 PM

PDP Considering Jonathan, Obi For 2027 Presidential Ticket~ Bala Mohammed

Former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi are among southern politicians being considered by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its 2027 presidential ticket. Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, revealed this on Thursday while speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today. He described Jonathan as “the most celebrated politician today,” recalling how the former leader faced political blackmail ahead of the 2015 election but was later cleared by the court. Mohammed, a former Minister of the FCT, added that Obi — who contested the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the Labour Party (LP) — would also have a chance if he decided to rejoin the PDP. “But certainly, (former) President Jonathan is one of the candidates we are thinking of, if he joins us and opens his mind to run. And even other people like (former) governor Obi, because if he decides to come to a better platform where there are no encumbrances, he will be given the opportunity too,” Mohammed stated. Asked whether the PDP governors were courting Obi or talking to him about running under the party for the election, “he said, “Have you not seen him with me? He’s my brother, my friend. “And of course, he’s one of the most celebrated politicians, too. And of course, you see him within the coalition or no coalition, definitely we are not sleeping, only that we don’t make a noise.” He also said there were other party members from the South, like the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who were free to contest the ticket.

8/29/2025, 6:46:48 AM

2027: I’m Contesting For President, Not Stepping Down For Anyone~ Amaechi

Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has vowed that there will be “no retreat, no surrender” in his bid to contest the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Speaking to journalists in Kano after a meeting with a coalition of traders, Amaechi maintained that the ADC primary must remain open and transparent, adding that he has no intention of stepping aside for any other aspirant. “I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I hope to win so that I can face Tinubu in 2027. “I am not stepping down for anyone. Let the people decide who they want to lead,” Amaechi declared. The former Minister of Transport maintained that every aspirant in the party had the right to seek the ticket, describing the contest as healthy for internal democracy. Weighing in on the state of the country under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the ADC chieftain criticised the administration, saying Nigerians were dissatisfied with its policies and governance style. “Whether the government wants to conduct credible elections or not, one thing is certain—time is up. Nigerians are tired because no one is happy under Tinubu, not even in Rivers or across the South. He tries to frame it as a North-South contest, but the truth is people are suffering everywhere,” he said.

8/28/2025, 12:05:13 PM

Jonathan Still A PDP Member~ Ologunagba

The National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Debo Ologunagba, has clarified that former President Goodluck Jonathan is still a member of the PDP and has not resigned from the party. Speaking on Wednesday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, Ologunagba addressed speculations surrounding potential contenders for the 2027 presidential election following the PDP’s decision to zone its ticket to the South. He reaffirmed Jonathan’s status as a party member but declined to comment on the political future of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, noting that Obi has yet to decide on returning to the PDP. “President Jonathan is still a member of this party because he has not resigned. And Mr. Obi is a presidential candidate in the last election for another political party. He has not indicated that he’s joining the party. “So, for me, it would be improper for me to begin to comment on that. What I can comment on is our capacity, even as we stand, that we have exceedingly qualified individuals,” he said. He also described Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who has been linked with interest in the party’s ticket, as a “poster boy” of the PDP. “And you mentioned, specifically, Governor Makinde. Of course, that’s one of our poster boys in this party in terms of performance, in terms of capacity, in terms of being able to galvanise Nigerians. And people see that promise in the country, in that individual. “So, for us, we have, in the party today, very eminently qualified Nigerians and governors who are performing. And Nigerians can recognise that,” he stated.

8/28/2025, 8:57:10 AM

2027: Delta APC Endorses Tinubu, Oborevwori As Sole Candidates

The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as its sole presidential and governorship flagbearers for the 2027 general elections. The endorsement was sealed on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the party’s State Executive Committee (SEC) meeting held at the APC Secretariat in Asaba, presided over by the State Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie. The gathering drew members of the State Executive Committee as well as chairmen of the party across the 25 local government areas of the state. In his opening remarks, Sobotie urged stakeholders to remain united and disciplined in strengthening the APC structure under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership. He emphasized that reconciliation, loyalty, and inclusion were indispensable for securing electoral victory. Deliberations at the meeting focused on consolidating grassroots mobilization, resolving internal disputes, and positioning the APC as a formidable political force in Delta State. Members were also briefed on a forthcoming empowerment programme aimed at delivering tangible benefits to party members and communities. The climax of the meeting was the unanimous adoption of a resolution endorsing President Tinubu for a second term, citing his bold economic reforms, visionary leadership, and steadfast commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda. Similarly, Governor Oborevwori was endorsed as the sole governorship candidate of the party in 2027, with party leaders praising his inclusive style and the developmental strides recorded under his M.O.R.E Agenda. The motion for adoption was moved by Chief Ubu Jiminyevwe Digbame, the State Assistant Auditor, and seconded by Pastor Norbert Sochukwudinma, Chairman of the Aniocha South APC, before being overwhelmingly approved with applause. Prayers for peace, unity, and progress were later offered by Sir Joshua Kekeje, Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Area. In a follow-up statement, the State Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo, Esq., reaffirmed the party’s commitment to discipline, service, and grassroots mobilization, assuring that Delta APC would deliver a sweeping victory for Tinubu and Oborevwori in 2027.

8/28/2025, 8:23:35 AM

2027: I’m Not Contesting Any Position~ El Rufai

Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has ruled out contesting for any political office in the 2027 elections, insisting that his renewed participation in politics is solely to support credible leadership at both state and national levels. El-Rufai disclosed this in Kaduna on Wednesday while receiving a group of PDP youths who defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under the leadership of Aliyu Bello. Taking aim at the present administration, the former governor said Nigerians do not need further explanation to see its failures. “This is a government that does nothing but lie every day. Everyone’s conscience tells them the truth. I am not contesting for anything; I don’t want to go to the Senate. I am not contesting for any position. That is why I am calling on you: let us join hands and ensure we remove the oppressors,” El-Rufai stated. He explained that his initial plan after leaving office was to withdraw from partisan politics. However, he said recent developments compelled him to return—not with personal ambition, but to contribute his support. “When I finished my tenure as governor of Kaduna, my intention was to rest. But given the way things have turned out, I believe we must play our part to bring about better leadership. That is why we are back in politics,” he explained. El-Rufai emphasized that his current focus is on mentoring and supporting young people, women, and reform-minded Nigerians to take charge of the political process. He also urged youths to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise. “In Lagos and Osun, at least 600,000 people registered. But in Kaduna, only 60,000. Anyone who is 18 years old should go and register, even with your phone. Registration is what gives you the right to choose who governs you,” he advised.

8/28/2025, 7:11:35 AM

2027: Our Presidential Ticket Open For Contest Despite Endorsing Tinubu~ APC

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has debunked claims that it plans to print a single presidential nomination form exclusively for President Bola Tinubu, thereby shutting out other aspirants from the party’s ticket ahead of the 2027 election. Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja, the party’s National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Sulaiman Argungu, clarified that although the National Working Committee (NWC) and several state chapters have endorsed Tinubu as their preferred candidate, the nomination process remains open to all interested contenders. He said; “It will be the wish of the party, and we, the NWC of the party, have already endorsed President Tinubu as the next presidential candidate of the party. And by extension, other organs have equally done the same thing. “Governors in the states have done the same, too. It has also been replicated in all six geographical zones of the country. But it does not mean that the door is closed. “We will definitely not close our doors. When the time comes, our timetable will be made known. Anybody who wants to aspire for the presidency under the APC will not be denied the opportunity to purchase the expression of interest and nomination forms to exercise their franchise. “We never said we had locked the door. We are only telling people that we appreciate what the President is doing for the people of the country and that he deserves a second term in office when we roundly endorsed him recently.” “Democracy does not permit dictatorship. While the majority of our members have endorsed President Tinubu, any other aspirant who wishes to contest under the APC platform will still be allowed to do so”. He further assured that the APC would continue to abide by the Independent National Electoral Commission’s INEC timetable and the provisions of the Electoral Act to ensure a credible and inclusive selection process.

8/27/2025, 3:47:14 PM

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