BREAKING: Gov Fabura orders fresh LG elections in Rivers

Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara has directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to hold fresh elections for the state’s local government councils, following a Supreme Court ruling that nullified the recent polls.

In a statewide broadcast on Sunday, March 2, 2025, Fubara instructed the local government chairmen elected in the invalidated elections to transfer power to the Heads of Local Government Administration by Monday, March 3, 2025.

Explaining the decision, Fubara noted that caretaker arrangements are not permitted under the current local government system.

“I hereby direct the Heads of Local Government Administration to immediately take over the administration of the 23 local government councils pending fresh elections by RSIEC,” he said. He also urged residents to remain calm and continue with their daily activities despite the state’s current challenges.

In his full broadcast, Fubara acknowledged the recent Supreme Court judgments on political disputes in Rivers State.

While he expressed disagreement with the rulings, he affirmed that his government is committed to upholding the rule of law. He added that his legal team is reviewing the certified judgments, expected by Friday, March 7, 2025, to determine their implications and implement necessary changes to move the state forward.