Wike’s allies shine as APC captures 20 of 23 Rivers councils

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has recorded a major victory in the Rivers State local government elections, winning 20 out of the 23 local government areas across the state.

The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) announced the results on Sunday in Port Harcourt, the state capital. The elections, which were held on Saturday, attracted significant attention due to the growing rivalry between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

According to RSIEC, the APC candidates who emerged winners are largely loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who continues to wield strong influence in Rivers politics despite leaving office as governor last year.

Some of the key local governments where APC secured victory include:

• Ahoada East with 84,125 votes
• Akuku Toru with 63,593 votes
• Andoni with 126,181 votes
• Asari Toru with 56,383 votes
• Bonny with 13,543 votes
• Degema with 61,536 votes
• Etche with 100,649 votes

On the other hand, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) managed to retain control of Obio Akpor Local Government Area, where it polled an impressive 328,888 votes, and Onelga (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area) with 51,051 votes.

Political observers say the outcome reflects Wike’s continued dominance in the state, as most of the APC winners are considered his close allies.

However, PDP’s strong showing in Obio Akpor and Onelga also demonstrates that the party still holds influence in strategic parts of Rivers State.

The elections were generally peaceful, though turnout appeared higher in some LGAs than others. With the announcement of results, attention is now shifting to how the APC-controlled councils will operate under the leadership of their newly elected chairmen and councillors.