Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged to adhere to the Supreme Court’s ruling after a thorough review of its Certified True Copy (CTC), which deemed the local government elections held on October 5, 2024, invalid.
In a state broadcast on Sunday, Governor Fubara revealed that he met with his legal team, who anticipate receiving the CTC by Friday, March 7, 2025. He affirmed his government’s commitment to upholding constitutional laws and following legal procedures.
In light of the Supreme Court’s decision, which nullified the October 5, 2023, local government elections, Fubara has directed the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to take immediate charge of the 23 local government councils until new elections are organized by the State Electoral Commission.
He instructed the outgoing chairmen to formally hand over responsibilities to the HLGAs by Monday (tomorrow).
While addressing ongoing political uncertainties, the governor urged residents to remain calm, reassuring them of his administration’s dedication to governance and adherence to due process.
Additionally, the Supreme Court ruled that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies must refrain from disbursing funds to the Rivers State government until it complies with court orders, citing “flagrant disobedience” to judicial decrees.
In a separate judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, the court dismissed Fubara’s cross-appeal challenging the validity of the House of Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule and mandated Amaewhule to resume his duties with the other elected members immediately.
**Full Speech of Governor Fubara’s Broadcast:**
1. My dear people of Rivers State, we are aware of the recent Supreme Court judgments regarding ongoing political issues in our State.
2. While we may disagree with these rulings, we are committed to adhering to them as a law-abiding government.
3. Since taking office, we have operated within the framework of the Constitution, upholding due process and the rule of law.
4. Though human errors occur, we believe our government has not intentionally violated the rule of law or constitutional governance principles.
5. I have met with my legal team, who expect the certified true copy of the judgments to be ready by Friday, March 7, 2025.
6. I assure you that once we receive these judgments, we will carefully assess their implications and implement them to advance our State.
7. In accordance with the prohibition of caretaker arrangements in local governance, I direct the Heads of Local Government Administration to take control of the 23 local councils until the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission conducts fresh elections.
8. I also instruct the outgoing local government chairmen to officially hand over their responsibilities to the HLGAs by Monday, March 3, 2025.
9. Even though our State faces challenging times, I urge everyone to maintain calm and continue with their daily activities as we strive to fulfill our duties to our citizens.
10. Thank you, and may God bless Rivers State.
