Rivers State Sets August 30 For Local Government Elections

 

Rivers State Sets August 30 For Local Government Elections.

The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has announced that local government elections across the state’s 23 local government areas (LGAs) will take place on Saturday, August 30, 2025. The decision follows a rescheduling from the initially planned date of August 9, prompted by a state of emergency that disrupted earlier preparations.

 RSIEC Chairman, Justice Michael Odey (rtd), unveiled the revised electoral timetable during a stakeholders’ meeting at the commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt on Monday. Addressing representatives from political parties, civil society groups, and election observers, Odey explained that the postponement was necessary to ensure a credible and inclusive electoral process. “Given the current realities and disruptions caused by the emergency situation, it became imperative to adjust the electoral calendar,” he stated, emphasising RSIEC’s commitment to delivering a free, fair, and transparent election.

The updated schedule outlines key dates for the electoral process. Political parties are expected to conduct their primaries between July 31 and August 3, with candidate submissions due on August 3 and 4. Electioneering campaigns will commence on August 12, while the recruitment of ad-hoc staff is slated for August 16. The final list of candidates will be displayed for public viewing on August 20. Should any run-off elections be required for chairmanship positions, these are scheduled for September 6. 

The announcement comes in the wake of significant political developments in Rivers State. A state of emergency, declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025, led to the dissolution of the previous RSIEC board, headed by Retired Justice Adolphus Enebeli, and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the state House of Assembly. The newly constituted RSIEC, led by Odey, was confirmed by the National Assembly last month, though his appointment sparked controversy due to his Cross River State origin. 

This election follows the Supreme Court’s nullification of the October 2024 local government polls, which were deemed non-compliant with the Electoral Act. The upcoming vote will determine chairpersons and councillors across all 23 LGAs, shaping the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political observers note that the outcome could influence control of the state’s political structures, with some expressing concerns over potential bias towards certain political figures. 

The Rivers State Police Command has pledged to provide robust security before, during, and after the elections to ensure voter safety. RSIEC has called for cooperation from residents and stakeholders, with Odey assuring the public that the commission will uphold electoral integrity. “The people of Rivers State deserve nothing less than an election conducted with excellence, honour, and dignity,” he said. 

As political activities gain momentum, the state anticipates heightened engagement from parties and voters alike, with hopes that the August 30 polls will strengthen democratic participation and governance in Rivers State.