Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has slammed the recent Rivers State local government elections, calling them a “rascality” and a “double tragedy” under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The elections, held on August 30, 2025, have been widely criticized for being unconstitutional and lacking legitimacy, sparking outrage among opposition figures and civil society groups.
Obi, speaking at a press briefing on Monday, argued that the conduct of the elections reflects a worrying decline in democratic standards in Nigeria. “What we witnessed in Rivers is not an election; it is a travesty of democracy. It is a rascality and a double tragedy that undermines the voice of the people,” Obi said.
Observers have raised serious concerns over irregularities, including the suspension of electoral officials, vote manipulation, and lack of transparency in the counting process. Many critics believe the elections were orchestrated to favor the ruling party, deepening fears about the state of governance under the Tinubu administration.
Political analysts warn that such controversial local polls could erode public trust in democratic institutions and fuel political tensions across the country. Social media has erupted with citizens voicing anger and disappointment, with hashtags demanding accountability and electoral reforms trending nationwide.
Obi’s strong condemnation adds to mounting pressure on the federal government to investigate the Rivers elections and ensure that local governance truly reflects the will of the people.