PDP's Olaka Nwogu Hails High Voter Turnout in Rivers By-Election

Senator Olaka Nwogu, the candidate representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Rivers South-East senatorial by-election, has expressed satisfaction with the significant number of voters who participated in the exercise. Speaking to journalists shortly after casting his ballot in Alesa, Eleme Local Government Area on Saturday, Nwogu highlighted the robust turnout as a clear indicator of public endorsement and confidence in the electoral process.

While commending the participation, Nwogu also used the opportunity to advise the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against an excessive reliance on technological tools for election conduct. He specifically voiced concerns regarding the operational efficiency of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), urging INEC to proactively address any potential hitches that could lead to voter disenfranchisement.

"We are receiving reports that the BVAS machines are encountering some difficulties; I implore INEC to prevent any situation that might disenfranchise voters," Nwogu stated. He further added, "INEC must exercise greater caution when depending on technology. It is paramount that our citizens are able to cast their votes during this election."

The by-election was organized to fill the vacant senatorial seat for the Rivers South-East District, which became empty following the demise of its former representative, Senator Barinada Mpigi. Separately, reports indicated that the Kebbi by-election concluded peacefully, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate emerging victorious, while officials in Rivers State also confirmed the peaceful conduct of their by-election.