The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has announced August 9, 2025, as the date for fresh Local Government (LG) elections in the state. This decision comes after the Supreme Court invalidated the previous LG polls held on October 5, 2024. The announcement was made by the Chief Electoral Commissioner, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (rtd), during a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.
Supreme Court Nullifies 2024 Local Government Elections
The fresh election follows last Friday’s judgment by the Supreme Court, which declared the local government elections conducted under the former administration as invalid. The court ruled that the polls violated constitutional provisions, prompting the need for fresh elections.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has assured Rivers State residents that his administration will fully comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling. In a statewide broadcast on Sunday, March 3, 2025, the governor disclosed that he had met with his legal team to review the court’s Certified True Copy (CTC), which is expected to be obtained by Friday, March 7, 2025.
Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding constitutional principles, adding that the government would act strictly in line with the law.
Following the Supreme Court’s verdict, Governor Fubara directed Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to take charge of the 23 local government councils across the state. The civil servants will manage the councils’ affairs until the fresh elections are conducted by RSIEC.
The decision to appoint HLGAs as interim administrators is aimed at ensuring the continued delivery of public services and avoiding leadership vacuum at the local government level.
Supreme Court Bars Funds Release to Rivers Government
In a separate judgment, the Supreme Court barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other government agencies from releasing funds to the Rivers State Government until the state complies with previous court orders.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, also dismissed the cross-appeal filed by Governor Fubara, challenging the legitimacy of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule. The court affirmed Amaewhule as the legitimate Speaker and directed the House to resume sitting with elected members.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to respecting the rule of law and ensuring that democratic principles are upheld in the state. He called on residents to remain calm and law-abiding as the government works to implement the court’s verdict.
The upcoming elections are expected to usher in new leadership at the local government level, providing an opportunity to strengthen democratic governance in Rivers State.
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
