The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has appealed to political parties, candidates and their supporters in Rivers State to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly as preparations intensify for the House of Assembly bye-elections scheduled for February 21, 2026.
The appeal was made by the Rivers State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Professor Gabriel Yomere, during a stakeholders’ forum convened by INEC in Port Harcourt. The engagement was aimed at fostering cooperation among key actors involved in the electoral process and ensuring that the forthcoming polls are credible, transparent and free from violence.
The meeting drew a broad spectrum of participants, including representatives of political parties, security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, youth groups and the media. Discussions focused on collective responsibilities and the need for sustained dialogue to guarantee a peaceful electoral environment.
The bye-elections will take place in Ahoada-East Constituency II and Khana Constituency II. The Ahoada-East II seat became vacant following the resignation of its former occupant, Edison Ehie, who was appointed Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. In Khana Constituency II, the seat has remained unoccupied since the passing of its lawmaker, Dinebari Loolo, in September 2023.
Providing an overview of the constituencies, Professor Yomere explained that the two areas comprise 14 wards with 242 polling units and a combined total of 112,950 registered voters. He emphasised that maintaining peace before, during and after the polls is essential to enable citizens to vote freely without fear of intimidation or disruption.
According to the REC, filling the vacant seats is crucial for effective representation, inclusive governance and the smooth operation of the Rivers State House of Assembly. He noted that the stakeholders’ engagement was part of INEC’s broader efforts to strengthen trust and collaboration among all parties involved in the electoral process.
Professor Yomere also briefed attendees on ongoing preparations for the second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, encouraging eligible citizens to take advantage of the opportunity to register and update their voter information.
During the interactive session, stakeholders called on INEC to ensure fairness and a level playing field for all political parties. They also urged the commission to uphold the neutrality, professionalism and integrity of its ad hoc staff throughout the exercise.
Speaking on behalf of political parties, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Rivers State, Nnanna Onyekwere, appealed to candidates and party supporters to strictly comply with electoral laws and guidelines. Similarly, the Convener of the Rivers Peace Initiative, Obinna Ebogidi, stressed that continuous dialogue, tolerance and restraint remain the most effective tools for preventing electoral violence.
On security preparations, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, represented by Chief Superintendent of Police James Njoku, reassured INEC and other stakeholders of the command’s readiness to deploy adequate security personnel. He pledged that the police would work closely with other security agencies to ensure a safe and orderly electoral process before, during and after the bye-elections.
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