By Our Reporter
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has announced plans for fresh local government elections following a recent Supreme Court ruling that outlawed the caretaker arrangements in the state’s local government system.
The governor made this announcement in a statewide broadcast on Sunday, March 2, 2025, urging the people of Rivers State to remain calm as the state navigates this political challenge.
In his address, Governor Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law, stating that although the government disagrees with the Supreme Court’s decision, it is duty-bound to comply with the ruling. He assured the people that the government would continue to act within the framework of the Constitution and the rule of law.
Governor Fubara further stated that the Heads of Local Government Administration in the state will immediately take over the administration of the 23 local government areas (LGAs) pending the conduct of fresh elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). He directed the outgoing local government chairmen to officially hand over power to the Heads of Local Government Administration by Monday, March 3, 2025.
Full Text of the Governor’s Broadcast:
“My dear people of Rivers State, we are all aware of the recent Supreme Court judgments and pronouncements regarding aspects of the lingering political disputes in our dear state. While we disagree with these judgments, we are bound to obey the orders made therein as a law-abiding government.
Since taking office, we have conducted the affairs of government within the framework of our Constitution, due process, and the rule of law. While we are not above mistakes, we believe that we have acted in good faith, and have not, as a government, deliberately trampled upon the rule of law or constitutional governance.
I have had consultations with my team of lawyers, who have assured me that the certified true copy of the judgments may be available to them by Friday, March 7, 2025. Upon receipt, we will study the implications and implement the judgments to move the state forward.
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 Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission. I further direct the outgoing local government chairmen to formally hand over power to the Heads of Local Government Administration by Monday, March 3, 2025.
Although our dear state seems to be facing trying times, I urge everyone to remain calm and peacefully continue with their daily activities as we remain fully committed to fulfilling our responsibilities to the citizens.
Thank you, and may God bless Rivers State.”