By Daniel Abia, Port Harcourt
Chairman of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Senator Magnus Ngei Abe, has urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to maintain confidence in the country’s electoral process in order to strengthen democracy.
Abe made the call following the successful con
duct of the Rivers South East Senatorial District bye-election held over the weekend.
He said the turnout of voters despite heavy rainfall demonstrated public willingness to participate in the democratic process and confidence in elections.
“I want to thank the people and enjoin all Nigerians to have faith in our electioneering process, as the process went on smoothly, transparently, freely and fairly,” he said.
Abe encouraged citizens to actively participate in elections rather than relying on social media narratives, stressing that votes cast at polling units remain the true expression of the people’s will.
He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its performance during the exercise, noting improvements compared to previous elections and urging further enhancements ahead of 2027.
Abe congratulated the senator-elect, Olaka Nwogu, on his victory, urging him to be magnanimous in victory and to recognise the commitment of voters who turned out despite the rain to exercise their civic duty.
