Austin Okpara, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, has described the successful conduct of the October 5, 2024, local government elections as a clear indication that the people of Rivers State are tired of oppression. Okpara made these remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s *Sunday Politics* program.
The former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives criticized former governor Nyesom Wike for attempting to control the political structures of both the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. Okpara praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara for going ahead with the local elections despite the withdrawal of both major parties, the PDP and APC.
According to Okpara, the election results reflect a growing desire for change among the people of Rivers State. “What it portends is that Rivers people are tired of oppression, Rivers people are tired of emperorship, Rivers people are tired of dictatorship,” he said.
He further commended Governor Fubara for his leadership, contrasting him with previous leaders. “The difference now is that we have a governor who wants to serve and not be served; not a governor who looks up to Adolf Hitler or Donald Trump as his mentor,” Okpara remarked.
He concluded by saying that the people of Rivers State feel liberated and were enthusiastic about participating in the elections, which he believes signal a shift towards a more democratic and inclusive leadership.
