The All Progressives Congress (APC) has recorded a major victory in the 2025 Rivers State local government elections, winning 20 out of the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
>The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured just three LGAs: Obio-Akpor, Port Harcourt City (PHALGA), and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni.
>The results were announced by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) chairman, Dr. Michael Odey, at the commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara Loses in His LGA
One of the major highlights of the poll was the defeat of Governor Siminalayi Fubara (PDP) in his home LGA, Opobo-Nkoro, which was won by the APC.
This marks a significant shift in Rivers State politics, as the PDP has always dominated local government elections since 1999. Combined with his earlier suspension under emergency rule, this weakens his legitimacy.
Certificates of Return and Political Implications
RSIEC confirmed that certificates of return will be presented to winners on September 1, 2025.
Political observers say the APC’s strong performance signals a growing presence in the state, possibly reshaping the dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Quick Breakdown of Results
APC – 20 LGAs (including the governor’s LGA, Opobo-Nkoro)
PDP – 3 LGAs (Obio-Akpor, Port Harcourt City, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni)
Reactions and Observations from Political Stakeholders and the Public
Atiku Abubakar’s Reaction
Atiku Abubakar, former vice president, rejected the outcome, calling it a “travesty of democracy.”
>PDP Leaders’ Position
PDP leaders defended the poll, insisting it was one of the freest in the state.
>APC Stakeholders’ Praise
Some APC stakeholders praised the RSIEC for conducting a peaceful and credible election.
>Civil Society Concerns
Civil society groups criticized the lack of BVAS (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System), raising questions on transparency.
>Supreme Court ruling violation: a 90-day notice was required before elections but allegedly not observed.
>Election conducted under emergency rule, where a military-appointed administrator oversees the state instead of an elected governor is of major concern.
