Governor Siminalayi Fubara has ordered administrative change.
He has instructed the Heads of Local Government to take over the 23 local government areas until fresh elections are conducted.
Fubara’s action follows the Supreme Court’s recent judgment that nullified the state local government elections conducted by Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
He made this known during a statewide broadcast from Government House in Port Harcourt on Sunday evening.
He said the transition is necessary in view of the Supreme Court judgment and the cancellation of caretaker committees in the local government system.
He emphasised that the outgoing local government chairmen are to hand over to the Heads of Local Government by Monday, 3rd March 2025.
Fubara admitted this is his first public address since the Supreme Court’s judgment last Friday.
He said the judgment not only cancelled the local government elections but also validated the Martin Amaewhule-led 27 lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
According to him, his decision is a commitment to the rule of law and due process.
He said his administration may not agree with the Supreme Court’s judgment but will comply as a law-abiding government.
He confirmed that all government activities have been done in accordance with the Constitution, due process and established norms.
He said a certified true copy of the judgment will be available by Friday, 7th March 2025.
Fubara lamented the situation the state is in following the court’s decision.
He urged the people of Rivers State to remain calm and go about their daily activities peacefully as the government works hard to guarantee good governance.
This move shows the governor’s determination to stabilise local government during crisis periods.
The situation is a reflection of the complexity of electoral process in Nigeria and the challenges of transparent governance.