“PDP Has Lost Rivers State” — Wabara Laments After LG Polls

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, has expressed deep disappointment over the party’s poor performance in the recent local government elections in Rivers State. Speaking after the results were announced, Wabara lamented that PDP’s hold on the state, which it has governed since 1999, has been shattered.

Governor Siminialayi Fubara, who presided over the swearing-in of the 23 newly elected local government chairmen, confirmed his continued affiliation with the PDP despite the party’s defeat. However, he warned of impending plans to disrupt local government headquarters as the new officials assume office.

The local elections, held on October 5, saw the Action People’s Party (APP) secure a sweeping victory, winning 22 out of 23 local government seats, and capturing 314 of the 319 councillorship wards across the state. The Action Alliance (AA) won in Etche Local Government, while the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Young Peoples Party (YPP) each secured a single councillorship seat.

Wabara attributed the PDP’s loss to internal conflicts and poor decision-making, acknowledging that the party ignored warnings from elders regarding the escalating crisis in its Rivers State chapter. He expressed concern that PDP could lose further ground in the 2027 elections unless it takes immediate action to resolve internal disputes.

“This is the first time in recent history that a ruling party has lost control of grassroots structures in Rivers State,” Wabara remarked. “We must reflect on this and take steps to prevent further losses in 2027.”

Meanwhile, Governor Fubara raised alarms about potential violence at local government offices, citing plans to mobilize gunmen to disrupt the new chairmen’s first day in office. He urged the chairmen to prioritize peace and development, warning them to avoid confrontations.

In a separate reaction, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar praised the people of Rivers State and Governor Fubara for resisting political intimidation during the elections. Atiku commended the peaceful conduct of the elections, describing the outcome as a triumph for democracy.

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Minimah (retd.), also congratulated Fubara on the successful conduct of the polls, calling the results a milestone for the state’s grassroots governance.

As the PDP reflects on its loss, the APP and AA are celebrating their victories, with APP State Chairman Sunny Wokekoro dedicating the party’s success to the people of Rivers. He commended the efficient election process and promised proactive leadership from the newly elected officials.