Atiku Condemns Rivers LG Elections,Describes Process a “Travesty of Democracy”

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

Atiku Abubakar has condemned the recently concluded local government elections in Rivers State, describing the exercise as a “travesty of democracy” marred by irregularities and political manipulation.

In a statement issued Monday, Atiku criticized what he called a “shameful and shambolic process” allegedly orchestrated by the All Progressives Congress (APC)–backed government in the state.

“By the shameful and shambolic manner in which the occupation government went ahead to conduct local government elections in Rivers State, it is clear that the ruling APC is prepared to throw caution to the wind in its desperation to impose itself on the people,” Atiku declared.

The Rivers polls, conducted amid heightened political tension and boycotts by opposition parties, have been overshadowed by reports of “voter suppression, intimidation, and a lack of transparency “. Civil society groups and independent observers have also questioned the credibility of the process, raising alarms over the erosion of democratic norms at the grassroots level.

Atiku’s comments align with broader criticisms from pro-democracy advocates, who argue that the elections highlight systemic weaknesses in Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the independence of the electoral process.

The Rivers State Government, now under APC control following recent political realignments, has yet to officially respond to the allegations, though party officials have previously dismissed such criticisms as unfounded.

Analysts warn that the controversy surrounding the Rivers polls underscores a wider national concern; the fragility of local government autonomy and its implications for governance, accountability, and stability ahead of future national elections.