In response to the recent Supreme Court judgment nullifying the October 5, 2024, local government elections in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara addressed the public, outlining the state’s course of action.
Governor Fubara acknowledged the decision by the Supreme Court, stating that while the government disagrees with the judgment, it remains committed to upholding the rule of law. He emphasized that since the administration’s inception, governance has been conducted within the framework of the constitution, due process, and adherence to legal principles.
The governor revealed that his legal team anticipates obtaining the certified true copy of the judgment by Friday, March 7, 2025. Upon receipt, the government plans to thoroughly review the judgment’s implications and implement its directives without reservation to ensure the state’s progress.
In compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling, which invalidated the local government elections due to substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act, Governor Fubara directed the Heads of Personnel Management (HPMs) to assume immediate administration of the 23 local government councils. This interim measure will remain in effect until the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission conducts fresh elections.
Furthermore, the governor instructed the outgoing local government chairmen to formally transfer authority to the HPMs by Monday, March 3, 2025. He urged all residents to remain calm and continue their legitimate daily activities, assuring them of the government’s dedication to fulfilling its responsibilities to the citizens.
This development follows a series of legal challenges concerning local government administration in Rivers State. Previously, a Rivers State High Court had nullified a law extending the tenure of local government chairmen, declaring such extensions unconstitutional.
