Governor Fubara Orders Fresh Local Government Elections in Rivers State

The political landscape of Rivers State has been reshaped following a recent Supreme Court ruling, which has prompted Governor Siminalayi Fubara to initiate fresh local government elections. The court’s decision, which declared caretaker committees in local government administration illegal, has forced the state government to take immediate action.

In compliance with the ruling, Governor Fubara announced that the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) would assume control of the 23 local government councils until the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) organizes new elections. The governor Fubara! made this declaration during a statewide broadcast on Sunday, emphasizing his commitment to upholding the rule of law despite his administration’s disagreements with the court’s verdict.

Governor Fubara Directs Immediate Handing Over of Power

To ensure a smooth transition, Governor Fubara directed all outgoing local government chairmen to formally transfer power to the HLGAs by Monday, March 3, 2025. He stressed that his administration would not condone any attempts to undermine the judiciary’s decision, reiterating that the new directive aligns with constitutional governance principles.

“Given the outlawing of caretaker arrangements in the 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 the conduct of fresh elections by the RSIEC,” Governor Fubara stated.

He further assured the people of Rivers State that while his government might not entirely agree with the judgment, it is duty-bound to comply with the court’s decision. This move is seen as an effort to maintain stability and prevent a leadership vacuum in the state’s local government structure.

Legal Consultation and Compliance

Governor Fubara also revealed that his legal team is closely reviewing the Supreme Court’s judgment to understand its full implications. He disclosed that the certified true copy of the ruling is expected to be available by Friday, March 7, 2025, after which the government will implement necessary steps to ensure compliance.

“Since inception, we have conducted the affairs of government within the framework of our Constitution, due process, and the rule of law,” Fubara said. “While we are not above mistakes because we are humans, we believe that we have not, as a government, done anything deliberately to trample on the rule of law or the hallowed principles of constitutional governance.”

The governor’s statement suggests that while the ruling might have come as a setback, his administration remains committed to democratic principles and legal frameworks that guide governance in Nigeria.

Governor Fubara Appeal for Calm and Stability

Acknowledging the potential tensions arising from the court ruling, Governor Fubara urged the citizens of Rivers State to remain calm and carry on with their daily activities peacefully. He emphasized that the government would continue to serve the people effectively despite the political challenges.

“Although our dear state seems to be back in trying times, I urge everyone to remain calm and peacefully go about their legitimate daily activities as we continue to do everything in our power to advance our responsibilities to the citizens,” he reassured.

This appeal for calm comes amidst concerns that political rivalries within the state could escalate due to the ruling. The governor’s call for peace is aimed at preventing any unrest that could disrupt governance and social stability.

The Road Ahead: Fresh Elections and Political Reorganization

With the directive now in place, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) is expected to announce a timeline for the local government elections. Political parties in the state are gearing up for the electoral process, which will determine the next set of leaders to oversee grassroots governance.

Governor Fubara’s decision to conduct fresh elections is widely seen as a commitment to constitutional democracy. Political analysts argue that the process will provide an opportunity for a more transparent and accountable local government system in the state. However, the political atmosphere remains tense, as different factions within the state prepare for what could be a fiercely contested election.

As Rivers State moves towards this transition, all eyes will be on the government and the electoral commission to ensure a free, fair, and credible election that reflects the will of the people.