Voting Begins In Rivers South East By-election

Voting Begins In Rivers South East By-election

Voting has started across seven local government areas in the Rivers South-East Senatorial District as residents take part in the by-election to replace the late Senator Barry Mpigi.

The election is being held in Khana, Gokana, Tai, Eleme, Andoni, Opobo-Nkoro and Oyigbo.

Large numbers of voters turned out in several communities, including B-Dere Ward 4 in Gokana, where polling units recorded steady participation.

However, early morning rain delayed the arrival of election materials in some areas, which slowed the start of accreditation before voting later continued in most locations.

Senator Magnus Abe, who voted in Gokana LGA, described the process as peaceful and urged residents to come out and participate.

He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for its conduct and encouraged voters not to stay away from the polls.

In Tai LGA, voters also came out despite the weather, with some polling units recording early activity and modest turnout by mid-morning.

Local stakeholders noted that while the process was generally smooth, there were technical issues linked to BVAS in a few centres.