The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has announced that fresh local government elections will take place on August 9, 2025. This decision comes after the Supreme Court nullified the previous elections held on October 5, 2024.
The chairman of RSIEC, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd.), made the announcement on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt. He stated that the electoral commission was acting in accordance with the Supreme Court’s ruling, which invalidated the 2024 elections conducted by the commission.
Supreme Court Ruling and Its Impact
The Supreme Court’s decision to cancel the October 2024 local government elections has created a political shake-up in Rivers State. The court ruled that the elections were not conducted in accordance with the law, leading to the removal of elected officials and necessitating a fresh poll. This judgment has heightened political tension in the state, as different parties and stakeholders prepare for the upcoming elections.
The ruling also follows months of legal battles and political disputes over the legitimacy of the local government officials elected in 2024. With the court’s decision now final, the state electoral body is moving ahead with plans to conduct new elections that will determine the next set of local government leaders.
RSIEC’s Announcement and Guidelines
Justice Enebeli emphasized that the commission is committed to conducting a free and fair election in all 23 local government areas of the state. He explained that RSIEC has outlined rules and procedures to guide political parties and candidates ahead of the polls.
“In exercise of the powers conferred on the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission by Section 5 of the RSIEC Law No. 2 of 2018, and all other enabling provisions, the commission hereby provides guidelines for political parties, stipulating rules and procedures for electioneering campaigns,” Enebeli stated.
He urged political parties to adhere strictly to the guidelines to ensure a smooth election process. The commission will release a detailed schedule for party primaries, voter registration, and other key electoral activities in the coming weeks.
Security Concerns Surrounding the Elections
One major issue surrounding the upcoming elections is the role of security agencies. The Rivers State Police Command had previously declared that it would not provide security for the nullified October 2024 elections, citing concerns over legal uncertainties and potential violence.
With the fresh elections now scheduled, there are growing concerns about whether security forces will actively participate in ensuring peace and order. Given the history of political violence in Rivers State, stakeholders are calling on the police and other security agencies to fully engage in securing the electoral process to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Governor Fubara’s Position on the Elections
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has been vocal about ensuring stability in the state’s political structure. Following the Supreme Court’s judgment, the governor assured residents that his administration would not allow any individual or group to disrupt the peace of the state.
“We will not allow anybody to cause instability in Rivers State,” Fubara stated recently, urging political actors to conduct themselves in a peaceful and democratic manner.
Observers believe that the upcoming elections will shape the political structure of Rivers State, as new leaders will emerge at the local government level. Some analysts suggest that the polls will be a test of Governor Fubara’s influence and political strategy ahead of future elections.
Political Parties Prepare for Battle
As the fresh elections approach, political parties in Rivers State are already gearing up for intense competition. The ruling party in the state, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is expected to field candidates in all 23 local government areas. However, the opposition parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other smaller parties, are also mobilizing support to challenge the PDP’s dominance.
The cancellation of the previous elections has given opposition parties a fresh opportunity to contest for local government leadership positions. Some political analysts believe that the new elections could be more competitive, as different parties will attempt to gain control of strategic local governments.
Public Reactions and Voter Expectations
The announcement of the fresh elections has drawn mixed reactions from residents and political stakeholders in Rivers State. While some citizens see it as an opportunity for a more transparent and legitimate electoral process, others are concerned about the possibility of political violence and manipulation.
Some residents expressed hopes that the new elections would bring better governance at the local level. “We need local government chairmen who will focus on development and not just political fights,” said a resident of Port Harcourt, who identified himself as Chinedu.
However, there are concerns about voter apathy, as some people believe that elections in Rivers State are often influenced by powerful political figures. “Many people don’t trust the process anymore. They feel their votes don’t count,” another resident, Grace Nwankwo, stated.
The Road Ahead
With the elections set for August 9, 2025, all eyes will be on RSIEC to conduct a credible process that reflects the will of the people. The success of the election will depend on the neutrality of the electoral commission, the commitment of security agencies, and the willingness of political parties to abide by the rules.
As preparations continue, stakeholders are calling for transparency and accountability to ensure that the elections do not lead to another round of legal battles. Political observers believe that the fresh local government elections will play a key role in determining the future of governance in Rivers State.
For now, residents, politicians, and election observers will be watching closely to see how events unfold as the state moves toward the much-anticipated elections in August.
