Governor Fubara Prepares for Fresh Local Government Elections After Supreme Court Ruling

Rivers State Prepares for Fresh Local Government Elections After Supreme Court Ruling

Following the Supreme Court’s annulment of the Rivers State Local Government (LG) elections held in October 2024, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) is set to conduct new council elections. On Tuesday, RSIEC announced a stakeholders meeting for Wednesday, March 5, 2025, where the commission will unveil the timetable and guidelines for the 2025 Local Government Elections.

The meeting, set to take place at the RSIEC headquarters in Port Harcourt, will involve key stakeholders such as political party leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, religious organizations, media representatives, professional bodies, civil society groups, community-based groups, and the general public.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State addressed the situation in a broadcast on Sunday, assuring citizens that his administration would comply with the Supreme Court’s decision after reviewing its Certified True Copy (CTC). This came after the court’s judgment on Friday, which declared the October 5, 2024, local government election invalid.

Governor Fubara also stated that his legal team expects to receive the CTC by Friday, March 7, 2025. He emphasized that his government would uphold constitutional principles and follow the law. Furthermore, he directed the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to assume control of the 23 local government councils, with civil servants temporarily overseeing council affairs until new elections are held.

Amid the political uncertainties, the governor urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that his administration is committed to governance and due process.

Additionally, the Supreme Court issued another judgment on Friday, prohibiting the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies from releasing funds to the Rivers State government until it complies with previous court orders. The court also dismissed an appeal filed by Governor Fubara, upholding the legitimacy of the Rivers State House of Assembly presided over by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, and ordering Amaewhule to resume his duties immediately.