Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has directed all elected chairmen of the 23 local government areas to hand over power to the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) immediately, following a Supreme Court ruling that nullified their elections.
In a statewide broadcast on Sunday, Governor Fubara affirmed that his administration would fully comply with the court’s decision, emphasizing that governance in the state would continue in line with constitutional principles and the rule of law.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria, in a judgment delivered on February 28, 2025, by Justice Jamilu Tukur, declared the local government elections held on October 5, 2024, invalid.
As a result, the governor ordered that HLGAs assume control of council affairs until the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) conducts fresh elections.
“I have consulted with my legal team, and they have assured me that the certified true copy of the judgment will be available by Friday, March 7, 2025. Once received, we will carefully study its implications and implement it accordingly,” Governor Fubara stated.
Acknowledging that caretaker committees are no longer legally permissible in local government administration, he further directed outgoing chairmen to formally hand over to the HLGAs by Monday, March 3, 2025.
Governor Fubara reassured the people of Rivers State of his administration’s commitment to upholding due process and ensuring stability.
While acknowledging the challenges the state is facing, he urged residents to remain calm and continue with their daily activities peacefully.
“Although our dear state seems to be going through trying times, I encourage everyone to stay peaceful and law-abiding as we work towards fulfilling our responsibilities to the people,” he said.