Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has affirmed that the Supreme Court’s ruling on the state’s local government elections will be fully implemented.
Following the verdict, he has directed all elected chairmen of the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) to hand over control to the Heads of Local Government Administration (HPMs) with immediate effect.
The Supreme Court, in its judgment delivered by Justice Jamilu Tukur on February 28, 2025, nullified the October 5, 2024, local government elections, which had produced 23 chairmen and 319 councillors.
In a statewide broadcast on Sunday, March 2, 2025, Governor Fubara stated that HPMs would oversee council affairs until fresh elections are conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
“I have consulted with my legal team, and they have assured me that the certified true copy of the judgment may be available by Friday, March 7, 2025,” he said.
“Once received, we will review it thoroughly and implement its directives without hesitation to advance the state’s progress.”
Emphasizing due process, Governor Fubara reiterated that caretaker arrangements for LGAs are no longer permitted.
He, therefore, ordered the HPMs to assume immediate administrative control while outgoing chairmen formally hand over by Monday, March 3, 2025.
Since taking office, he noted, his administration has remained committed to constitutional governance, the rule of law, and due process.
While acknowledging the challenges the state is facing, he urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities peacefully, assuring them that his government remains focused on meeting their needs.
“While we are not above mistakes, we have never deliberately undermined the rule of law or constitutional principles,” the governor stated.
“Despite the current difficulties, I encourage everyone to stay peaceful as we continue to fulfill our responsibilities to the people.”
