As Rivers State prepares for bye-elections in the Ahoada-East II and Khana II constituencies on 21 February, 2026, the police have issued a firm warning against electoral violence, promising a secure environment for voters and officials alike.
At a State-level Stakeholders Interactive Forum in Port Harcourt on Thursday, security agencies, political parties, and civil society representatives gathered with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to review preparations for the polls.
According to the Elanhub media report, the Rivers State Police Command, represented by CSP James Njoku, emphasised that any attempt at ballot snatching, intimidation, or other forms of electoral malpractice would be met with immediate arrest and prosecution.
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“We are committed to safeguarding every voter, INEC official, and observer during the elections,” CSP Njoku stated. “No act of violence or disruption will be tolerated.” He reassured stakeholders that adequate personnel would be deployed to ensure law and order across all voting locations.
The forum also highlighted INEC’s ongoing efforts to encourage grassroots participation through the second phase of Continuous Voter Registration (CVR). Prof. Yomere, the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, explained that the commission plans to rotate registration across all wards and registration areas in the state’s 23 local governments. This approach aims to bring voter registration closer to communities and increase turnout.
Prof. Yomere further called on political parties to focus on issue-based campaigns and internal democracy, warning that peaceful conduct is crucial for the success of the bye-elections. The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and civil society groups welcomed these measures, praising the improved coordination between the commission and political actors.
Religious leaders, community representatives, and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) joined the call for a transparent, credible, and violence-free election, reflecting widespread commitment to ensuring voters can cast their ballots without fear.
With the elections just over a month away, the joint message from security agencies, INEC, and civil society is clear: Rivers State’s bye-elections must proceed in an atmosphere of peace and accountability.
