Siminalayi Fubara has called on residents of Rivers State to actively participate in the bye-elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will conduct elections across the six area councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), alongside bye-elections in Ahoada East II and Khana II constituencies in Rivers State, and in Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, Fubara specifically urged eligible voters in Ahoada East and Khana Local Government Areas to turn out in large numbers.
Describing the election as a “family affair,” the governor encouraged residents to support the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) contesting the two vacant seats in the State House of Assembly. He also urged voters to remain peaceful and law-abiding throughout the exercise.
“Everybody should be law-abiding and avoid doing anything that will disturb the peace during the exercise. It is actually a family election and there is no need for rancour and acrimony,” Fubara said.
Similarly, Bola Tinubu called for peaceful and orderly conduct during Saturday’s elections in the FCT, Kano, and Rivers State.
In a statement released Friday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President urged security agencies to exercise restraint and called on INEC to strengthen public confidence in the process.
“President Tinubu urged all eligible voters to come out and vote without fear, emphasising that the democratic process thrives best in an atmosphere of calm, tolerance and mutual respect,” the statement read.
He appealed to voters, security personnel, and INEC officials to conduct themselves professionally and avoid any acts that could undermine the credibility of the polls. Tinubu also warned against high-handedness or intimidation by security agencies and stressed that their role is to safeguard lives, property, and the integrity of the ballot.
The President further urged INEC to take all necessary steps to ensure timely accreditation, smooth voting, accurate collation, and prompt transmission of results, in line with the Electoral Act 2026.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting institutions responsible for free, fair, and credible elections, expressing confidence that the outcome would reflect the will of the people and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.
