Rivers Bye-Election Set for February 21 Without Major Parties

The bye-election for Khana Constituency 2 and Ahoada East Constituency 2 in Rivers State is scheduled to commence on February 21, 2024. Professor Gabriel Yomere, the electoral commissioner, announced that the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) will not have candidates for these elections.

This situation arises due to internal procedural challenges within the parties, which have left the two assembly seats vacant. Khana Constituency 2 became vacant following the death of Dinebari Loolo in September 2023, while Ahoada East Constituency 2 was left unoccupied after Edison Ehi's resignation in December 2023 to assume the role of Chief of Staff to the Rivers State Governor.

Despite the absence of major party candidates, twelve candidates from seven smaller political parties will contest the vacant positions. Professor Yomere reassured residents that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is finalizing logistical arrangements to ensure a smooth election process.