Rivers Bye-Elections: APC looks set for easy win as PDP, ADC sit out

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will conduct bye-elections today, February 21, 2026, to fill two vacant seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly. The elections will take place in Ahoada East Constituency II and Khana Constituency II.

According to the list of candidates released by INEC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will not participate in the elections. Both parties did not submit candidates for the two positions.

The political parties contesting the elections are the All Progressives Congress (APC), Action Alliance (AA), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Boot Party (BP), New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), Young Progressive Party (YPP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

With the absence of major opposition parties like the PDP and ADC, the election appears to favor the APC. Many observers believe it will be difficult for any other party to win, especially considering the current political situation in Rivers State.

The election is taking place after political tensions in the state have reportedly reduced. Governor Siminalayi Fubara is now working closely with members of the House of Assembly. There is also growing cooperation among key political leaders in the state, which may strengthen the APC’s chances.

Although the PDP is not on the ballot, some of its members are said to be working with APC leaders. The political alliance known as the “rainbow coalition,” reportedly promoted by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, is bringing together members of different parties to work toward common political goals ahead of the 2027 elections.

In Ahoada East Constituency II, the APC candidate is Ukalikpe Napoleon Nyemodumakpo. Party members describe him as a grassroots politician who has remained loyal and active in party affairs.

In Khana Constituency II, the APC candidate is Loolo Bulabari Henrietta, the wife of the former lawmaker who died while in office. Many people in the area, especially women, are said to support her.

However, some political stakeholders have warned the APC not to be overconfident. They say there may still be dissatisfaction among supporters of former political figures.

One such figure is Edison Ehie, a popular politician in Ahoada East. He previously served as Majority Leader in the House of Assembly before resigning during the political crisis. He was later appointed Chief of Staff but has reportedly lost that position. Some believe he may influence the outcome of the election if he is not properly consulted or reconciled.

Other candidates in Ahoada East Constituency II include:

Egor Marvelous (AA)

Godstime Egor (APM)

Oseja Clifford (BP)

Ephraim Raphael Ede (NNPP)

Ogide Greatman (YPP)

Okwudi Prosper (ZLP)

In Khana Constituency II, other candidates are:

Nwakpang Victor (AA)

Yormii Barasima (NNPP)

Celestine Gideon (YPP)

Anthony Ndor (ZLP)

INEC has confirmed that it is fully prepared for the election. Sensitive materials arrived at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in Port Harcourt and were inspected by INEC officials and representatives of political parties.

Security agencies have also announced measures to ensure peace during the election. The police have placed a restriction on movement in Ahoada East and Khana Local Government Areas from 12 noon to 6 p.m. on election day.

The Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, said there will be heavy deployment of security personnel across the two areas. Officers will be stationed at polling units and major roads to prevent violence and other illegal activities.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, warned that anyone who violates the movement restriction or causes trouble will be arrested and prosecuted. He urged residents to obey the law, avoid gathering unnecessarily, and report any suspicious activities.

The police also advised parents to warn their children against being used for political violence.

Security agencies say they are committed to ensuring that voters can carry out their civic duties peacefully and without fear.