The local government elections in Rivers State, held on October 5, 2024, were marked by significant political dynamics and tension. Despite these challenges, the Action Peoples Party (APP) emerged as the dominant force, securing 22 out of the 23 local government chairmanship seats, an impressive achievement in a politically charged environment.
Political observers anticipated possible violence and unrest due to tensions between the state’s current governor, Sim Fubara, and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Despite these tensions, Governor Fubara remained resolute, insisting that the election would proceed as scheduled, with the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) overseeing the process. The election was further complicated by the surprising decision of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to boycott the polls, leaving the APP to capitalize on this opportunity.
In an unexpected turn of events, the APP not only dominated but reshaped the political landscape in Rivers State. Here’s a breakdown of some key individuals elected as chairpersons of their respective LGAs, giving insight into the leadership shaping these areas.
Tonye Briggs Oniyide (Akuku Toru LGA) A seasoned politician, she currently serves as Rivers State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism. Briggs Oniyide has held multiple political positions, including her appointment to the Federal Character Commission under President Goodluck Jonathan.
Dame Hon. Anengi Barasua Claude Wilcox (Bonny LGA) Re elected as chairperson, Dame Hon. Anengi has led the Bonny Local Government Area since 2021 and is known for numerous development projects in the region.
Harry Agiriye (Degema LGA) Agiriye is not just a politician but an accomplished orthopaedic surgeon with nearly two decades of experience. His leadership in Degema promises a blend of healthcare and political expertise.
David Omereji (Emohua LGA) A former PDP leader in the Egbeda community, Omereji's switch to APP marked a significant political shift. His victory in Emohua demonstrates the APP's growing influence in traditionally PDP dominated areas.
Prince Isaac Umejuru (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA) Umejuru’s background as a former Commissioner for Urban Development positions him well to address the urban needs of his constituency.
Igwe Achese (Okirika LGA) Once the President of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Achese's experience in labor relations brings a unique perspective to local governance.
Gift Okere (Oyigbo LGA) Previously a leader in the APC, Okere's defection to APP helped solidify the party's victory in Oyigbo, further diminishing APC's stronghold.
Ezebunwo Ichemati (Port Harcourt LGA) Ichemati, previously a caretaker chairman, was elected as the substantive chairman for the Port Harcourt Local Government Area, a critical region in Rivers State.
Lazarus Gogote Nteogwuile (Andoni LGA) Nteogwuile emphasizes development, stating that his focus is on uniting Andoni and fostering progress across the board.
Sule Amachree (Asari Toru LGA) Amachree, an academic with a Master’s in Electrical Engineering, is expected to bring a scholarly approach to governance in Asari Toru.
While the APP dominated the election, the chairmanship seat for Etche LGA went to the Action Alliance (AA) candidate, Uzodinma Nwafor. This defeat was notable, but APP managed to secure all 19 councillorship positions in Etche, ensuring a strong presence in the area.
This election has not only cemented the APP's dominance in Rivers State but also highlights the cracks in the previously unchallenged control of the PDP and APC. The APP's success can be attributed to the defection of influential PDP members, like David Omereji and Monday Dumiye, to the APP, giving the party a formidable political edge.
With this newfound power, the APP will face the challenge of delivering on its promises in the various local governments. The chairmen's leadership, coupled with their diverse professional backgrounds ranging from healthcare to urban planning offers hope for effective governance. However, the tension between Governor Fubara and Wike looms large, potentially impacting the political landscape as these new chairpersons begin their tenure.
The Rivers State local government elections have opened a new chapter in the state's political history, with the APP emerging as a key player. With 22 out of 23 LGAs under their control, they have positioned themselves as a force to be reckoned with in future political contest.