Fubara orders fresh LG elections in Rivers
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to conduct fresh local government elections following recent Supreme Court rulings on the state’s ongoing political crisis.
In a statewide broadcast on Sunday, Fubara acknowledged his administration’s disagreement with the court’s decisions but emphasized its commitment to upholding the rule of law. He stated that once the certified true copies of the judgments are obtained—expected by Friday, March 7, 2025—the government will review and implement them accordingly.
As an interim measure, the governor instructed the Heads of Local Government Administration to take over leadership in the 23 LGAs pending the conduct of new elections. He also ordered the outgoing local government chairmen to hand over power by Monday, March 3, 2025.
“Since caretaker committees have been ruled unconstitutional in the local government system, I hereby direct the Heads of Local Government Administration to immediately assume responsibility for the 23 councils until fresh elections are conducted by RSIEC,” Fubara stated.
He urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that his administration is committed to stabilizing the state and fulfilling its governance responsibilities.
“Despite the challenges facing our state, I encourage everyone to go about their daily activities peacefully,” he added.
The announcement comes amid rising political tensions in Rivers State, as stakeholders anticipate the implementation of the Supreme Court’s verdicts and the scheduling of new elections.
