Rivers LG Chairmen Sack: “We Shall Implement the Judgment Without Reservations” – Fubara

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has confirmed that his administration will conduct fresh local government elections following the Supreme Court’s verdict nullifying the polls held on October 5, 2024.

In a statewide broadcast on Sunday, Fubara assured residents that his government will comply with the ruling after carefully reviewing the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment, which is expected by Friday, March 7, 2025. He emphasized his commitment to upholding constitutional principles and due process.

As an interim measure, the governor has directed the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to assume control of the 23 local government councils. He further instructed outgoing council chairmen to formally hand over to the HLGAs by Monday, March 3, 2025. This move follows the court’s ruling that nullified the previous local government elections, rendering their tenure invalid.

Fubara urged the people of Rivers State to remain calm amid the political uncertainty, assuring them that his administration remains focused on governance and legal compliance.

The Supreme Court, in a separate ruling on Friday, also 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. Additionally, the court dismissed Fubara’s appeal challenging the legitimacy of the House of Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule and ordered the assembly to resume sitting immediately.

Despite expressing disagreement with the Supreme Court’s decisions, Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to following the law. He pledged to implement the court’s rulings once the judgments are reviewed, ensuring that the state moves forward in accordance with constitutional provisions.