By Aaior K. Comfort
The Centre for Truth and Justice (CTJ) has condemned the recent Local Government elections in Rivers State, alleging that Governor Siminalayi Fubara undermined the democratic process and violated the principles that Nigeria stands for.

At a press conference in Abuja, Executive Director Obinna Francis stated that the elections were conducted without transparency, accountability, or legitimacy, describing them as a mere “coronation” of Governor Fubara’s allies. Francis criticized Fubara for his unilateral suspension of members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and for appointing a three-man committee to function as the state assembly, asserting that this action disregards the law and the separation of powers.

“The conduct of Local Government elections in Rivers State is a travesty of democracy, an affront to the will of the people, and a direct assault on the rule of law,” Francis stated. He argued that the elections held within the Government House lacked any credible electoral oversight and offered no opportunity for the citizens of Rivers State to express their voices.

He also noted that a judgment from a Federal High Court in Abuja had restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from releasing voters’ registers to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). Nonetheless, Governor Fubara reportedly obtained a questionable court order to bypass this ruling, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the judiciary.

Francis further condemned the RSIEC’s role in what he described as an illegitimate process, arguing that it has become a tool for Governor Fubara to manipulate elections and install loyalists in positions of power. He criticized the results of the elections, where the Action Peoples Party (APP)—a relatively unknown political party—“won” 22 out of 23 chairmanship seats, labeling this outcome as a product of a manipulated electoral process designed to secure Fubara’s dominance.

“The election process was an embarrassment to the state and the nation as a whole. We must ask ourselves what kind of state operates without a legitimate legislature. The answer is clear: a dictatorship,” Francis added.

The CTJ called on relevant authorities, including the National Assembly, judiciary, and international community, to intervene and restore the rule of law in Rivers State. They urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and defend democracy, emphasizing that the actions of Governor Fubara pose a significant threat to the democratic progress achieved in the country.