Rivers By-Election Peaceful Despite BVAS Network Issues — LG Chairmen

The South-East Senatorial District by-election in Rivers State was conducted peacefully on Saturday despite network challenges that affected the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in some areas. The election took place across the district, with local government officials reporting a calm atmosphere and orderly voting process.

Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Dr. Thomas Barere, spoke after casting his vote at Polling Unit 4, Ward 18, in Khana. He said the exercise progressed smoothly and residents who came out understood the importance of participating in the election. According to him, voter turnout was lower than expected in some locations due to rainfall experienced across parts of the state.

Barere noted that election observers visited several polling units within the local government and were satisfied with how the process was being conducted. He added that the local government authorities remained on alert throughout the exercise, monitoring reports from different communities to ensure any issues were addressed quickly.

Addressing concerns over BVAS difficulties reported in some polling units, the council chairman explained that the problem was linked to network disruptions. He stated that electoral officials and technical personnel worked to resolve the situation, allowing the process to continue.

He also appealed to residents to remain law-abiding and support a peaceful electoral process until voting and other election activities were completed.
In Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, Chairman James James also described the election as peaceful.

He expressed satisfaction with the turnout of voters and said residents showed commitment by coming out to vote despite the rainy weather.

The council boss said there were no reports of security threats or disturbances across polling units in the area. He added that the conduct of the election remained orderly and that Opobo/Nkoro was on course to be among the most peaceful local government areas during the by-election.

James further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to continue ensuring fairness throughout the electoral process and provide every eligible voter with the opportunity to exercise their civic right.

Across the district, election activities continued under the supervision of INEC, while local authorities and security agencies monitored developments to maintain peace and order.

The by-election proceeded with only minor technical challenges, as officials worked to ensure a smooth voting process.