APC celebrates Rivers LG poll victory, knocks Atiku over malpractice claims

Felix Morka, national publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), says the party’s victory in the Rivers state local government elections reflects the people’s confidence in the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement released on Monday and shared on X by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information, Morka said the APC secured 20 out of the 23 contested chairmanship seats across the state.

He thanked Rivers residents for voting the party and praised party members and leaders for their efforts.

“This victory is yet another unmistakable indication of strong confidence of the people in the APC-led President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” the statement read.

“We commend our party leaders, members and supporters for working assiduously for this important victory. Our appreciation also goes to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), and security agencies for ensuring a peaceful, transparent and hitch-free election.”

Morka described the poll as free and fair, adding that the electoral commission resisted any attempt at intimidation.

He dismissed allegations of malpractice made by Atiku Abubakar, former vice president and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, calling them “highly irresponsible”.

“Our great party categorically rejects the incendiary and highly irresponsible allegations of foul play hurled by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over the Rivers State local government elections,” he said.

“Atiku’s tirade is no more than a smokescreen meant to distract the public and an attempt to stoke tension and strife over the Rivers local government election.”

Morka urged the people of Rivers to shun incitement and support the newly elected officials in delivering good governance.

“We trust Rivers people to reject Atiku’s incitement to strife and instability as an unwise counsel of a forlorn serial presidential contender,” he said.

“Again, our profuse gratitude remains with the Rivers state electorate for their highly valued support.

”Together, we will build a stronger, more united Rivers state that works for the good of all.”