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The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the outcome of the recent by-elections in Rivers and Kano States, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as a clear referendum on the presidency of Bola Tinubu.

In a statement on Sunday by its spokesman, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, the party expressed appreciation to the people of the affected constituencies and Nigerians at large for what it termed overwhelming support for the ruling party.

According to the Lagos APC, the resounding victories recorded by its candidates reaffirm the electorate’s confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The party maintained that the results demonstrate public endorsement of ongoing economic reforms, infrastructural expansion, and institutional strengthening initiatives at both federal and state levels.

“The outcome of the by-elections stands as a clear and unmistakable referendum on the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the progressive ideals guiding governance in our nation,” the statement read.

The party argued that despite what it described as attempts by opposition elements to misrepresent the direction of the country, voters delivered a decisive verdict at the polls. It added that the results reflected Nigerians’ recognition of what it called bold leadership and courageous reforms, as well as an understanding that nation-building requires patience and continuity.

The Lagos APC further stated that the elections underscored what it described as the limited electoral impact of opposition rhetoric and social media activism, noting that digital prominence did not translate into votes at the ballot box.

It described the victories as a major boost for the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that the momentum generated by the by-elections signals broader national support for the APC.

The party also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting the elections and praised security agencies for maintaining peace and order throughout the process, thereby enabling citizens to exercise their civic responsibilities in a secure environment.

Oladejo lauded party faithful, campaign teams, and volunteers for their dedication and grassroots engagement, which he said contributed significantly to the outcome.

He reiterated the Lagos APC’s unwavering support for President Tinubu and called on all Nigerians, including members of the opposition, to collaborate in building a stronger, more prosperous, and united nation. (Guardian)

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, believes the conduct of the Rivers local government elections is a step closer to the end of emergency rule in the coastal state.

Wike spoke on Saturday in Rumepirikom, Ward 9, Unit 007, Obio/Akpo Local Government Area of the state after voting in the Rivers council elections.

“So, having done this, then the coast is clear for the state of emergency to be lifted, meaning that the local government has representatives, the state government has its own elected representatives, so we are good to go,” he told the press after exercising his franchise.

“I do know that by September 18, the state of emergency will expire, and that would mean that the state governor and state assembly will come back to their job, and we will have a government at the grassroots level,” the former governor of the state said.

He equally hailed the conduct of the elections and described it as peaceful.

“I am very happy. It means that people identify with the elections,” Wike, who was surrounded by supporters, said, dismissing concerns about voter apathy.

“You have not heard of any violence. You have not heard of [people] carrying ballot boxes. You see that the electoral materials are there. People are there casting their votes. As far as we are concerned, the elections are very peaceful.

“Of course, we are concerned [about low turnout], but people are trooping out. Before the elections close, you will see the number of persons [increase]. So, we are very happy that, at the end of the day, these elections have been conducted very peacefully and successfully.”

The elections came six months after the Supreme Court nullified a previous one conducted out by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).

In March, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the South-South state, citing rising tensions over a months-long political impasse between Wike and his successor, Siminalayi Fubara, which had defied peace moves.

He suspended Fubara; his deputy, Ngozi Oduh, and members of the Rivers State Assembly in March for a period of six months.

In their stead, he named a sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired), to run the state.

Weeks after the move, Fubara, Wike, some key members of the Rivers Assembly, met with President Tinubu.

At the end of the gathering, the FCT minister told reporters that the parties had settled their issues. (Channels)

Tag: Rivers

Rivers, Kano, FCT polls reflect confidence in Tinubu – Lagos APC

Rivers LG Polls: Coast now clear for lifting of emergency rule, says Wike