Following the Supreme Court’s landmark verdict nullifying the October 5, 2024, local government elections in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has assured residents that his administration will uphold the ruling and conduct fresh elections.
In a state broadcast on Sunday, Fubara stated that he had met with his legal team, which is expected to obtain the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment by Friday, March 7, 2025. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to constitutional principles, emphasizing that all actions taken would align with the rule of law.
In the interim, the governor has directed the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to assume immediate control of the 23 local government councils. This follows the Supreme Court’s ruling, which declared the previous elections invalid. Fubara further ordered all outgoing local government chairmen to formally hand over to the HLGAs by Monday.
“As a responsible government, we are bound by the dictates of the law. Therefore, I have instructed the relevant authorities to oversee a seamless transition in line with the Supreme Court’s pronouncement,” Fubara stated.
The Supreme Court’s ruling has heightened political tensions in Rivers State. In a separate judgment, the apex court barred 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.
Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, delivering the verdict on behalf of a five-man panel, also dismissed Fubara’s appeal challenging the legitimacy of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule. The court directed Amaewhule and other elected members to resume legislative duties immediately.
With the legal and political landscape shifting rapidly, all eyes remain on Governor Fubara’s next steps as he navigates the crisis while ensuring governance continues without disruption.
PIONEER NEWS 