In the Rivers State local government elections held on August 30, 2025, the All Progressives Congress (APC) claimed a remarkable victory across 20 of the state’s 23 local government areas (LGAs). However, despite the sweeping success, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) retained control of three key local governments: Port Harcourt, Obio Akpor, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni. These results mark a significant shift in the state’s political landscape, reflecting the ongoing battle between the two major political parties in Nigeria.
The PDP Holds Its Ground in Strategic Areas
While the APC’s win across 20 LGAs was a historic achievement, political observers have noted that the PDP’s ability to hold onto Port Harcourt, Obio Akpor, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni could play a pivotal role in future electoral contests in the region. These three councils are considered strongholds for the PDP, with Port Harcourt being the state capital and a major urban center in Nigeria. Obio Akpor, with its large population, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, located in an oil-rich region, also hold significant political and economic importance.
Local Governments Where APC Lost
- Port Harcourt Local Government Area
- Obio Akpor Local Government Area
- Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area
These three local governments stood out as the only resistance to the APC’s dominant performance across the rest of Rivers State, where the APC achieved overwhelming victories.
The APC’s Performance and PDP’s Urban Influence
Although the APC won 20 LGAs, this was not without resistance from the PDP, which managed to maintain control in the urban centers. These urban councils—Port Harcourt, Obio Akpor, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni—are of strategic importance, and their retention by the PDP highlights the party’s ongoing influence in economically vital and densely populated areas. The results show that while the APC has made significant inroads in the grassroots, the PDP continues to command substantial support in urban regions.
Electoral Chairman’s Statement
Dr. Michael Odey, Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), confirmed the election results, praising the peaceful conduct of the elections. He emphasized that the outcomes were in line with the electoral process, reflecting the will of the people. According to Dr. Odey, the PDP’s retention of these key areas, despite the APC’s dominance elsewhere, is a notable feature of the election.
Political Analysts Weigh In
Political analyst Dr. Toks Oguntuga expressed skepticism about the electoral process, describing the Rivers state local elections as a “grand charade.” He argued that the electoral exercise mirrored past issues in Nigerian democracy, where the power struggle is influenced by external forces. Dr. Oguntuga also highlighted how the federal government’s backing appeared to play a significant role in the APC’s success in the state.
Looking Ahead: PDP’s Strategy and APC’s Momentum
With the PDP maintaining control over three of the most strategically important councils, the party is likely to reassess its approach to upcoming elections. The APC, while dominating the local government elections in Rivers, must contend with the PDP’s urban strongholds. The political landscape in Rivers remains dynamic, with both parties likely preparing for a heated battle in future elections.
Conclusion: A Landmark Election in Rivers State
The 2025 Rivers State Local Government Elections mark a historic moment for the APC, which secured an overwhelming victory across 20 LGAs. However, the PDP’s retention of Port Harcourt, Obio Akpor, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni shows that, despite the APC’s gains, the party has not yet fully consolidated its control over the state. This development could play a key role in shaping future political strategies in Rivers State, with both parties preparing for the next rounds of electoral battles.
