Rivers APC Unveils Candidates for Two Assembly Bye-Elections
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has announced its slate of candidates for the forthcoming State House of Assembly bye-elections in two constituencies: Ahoada East Constituency II and Khana Constituency II. The carefully choreographed party primary process culminated in the selection of Napoleon Ukalikpe as the APC nominee for Ahoada East II, with the party also declaring its candidate for Khana II (name disclosed by party leadership in keeping with internal procedures).
Why these by-elections matter
Bye-elections in Rivers State are often viewed as important barometers of party strength ahead of general elections. They can signal shifting allegiances, mobilization capacity, and governance priorities among voters in the districts affected. For the APC, securing both seats could bolster its legislative influence and provide a broader platform to push its agenda at the state level.
The Ahoada East II Candidate: Napoleon Ukalikpe
Napoleon Ukalikpe emerged as the APC’s candidate for Ahoada East II after a party process that officials described as transparent and competitive. Ukalikpe’s selection follows local consultations, the weighing of candidate credentials, and adherence to party guidelines designed to maintain fairness and inclusivity in the nomination process. Supporters of Ukalikpe emphasize his background, community ties, and readiness to represent the district’s interests in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
What to expect from the Ahoada East II campaign
With the candidate in place, observers anticipate a campaign focused on local development, security, and service delivery—issues that have dominated political discourse in the state. The APC is expected to highlight its previous record in governance while contrasting its approach with that of opponents in the bye-election race. Voter turnout, coalition-building with local groups, and message discipline will be key determinants of electoral success in the district.
Khana II Candidate: Campaign Roadmap
Although the Khana II candidate’s name has been released by party officials, the public briefing underscored a campaign roadmap that prioritizes grassroots engagement, voter education, and issues central to the constituency, including infrastructure and basic services. The party leadership stressed that the Khana II campaign would be organized, compliant with electoral guidelines, and focused on presenting a clear, issue-driven alternative to other contenders.
Electoral timing and steps ahead
The dates for party primaries, official campaigns, and the election itself will be published by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) and state electoral authorities. In the interim, both campaigns are expected to ramp up mobile and on-the-ground activities, including town-hall meetings, door-to-door outreach, and local media engagement. Citizens are encouraged to verify polling locations and keep abreast of any changes announced by INEC.
<h2Implications for Rivers State politics
The selection of candidates by the APC reaffirms the party’s organizational strength in Rivers State while setting up a contest that could influence the balance of power in the House of Assembly. Should the APC capture either or both seats, it could shape legislative priorities and potentially affect the administration’s policy agenda in the run-up to general elections.
What voters should know
Voters in Ahoada East II and Khana II are urged to engage with the candidates through official party channels, attend vetted public forums, and stay informed about the election schedule. Ensuring credible participation rests on accurate information, peaceful conduct, and an understanding of how each candidate plans to address local concerns.
