Supreme Court Sacks Rivers State Local Government Chairmen in Landmark Verdict

In a decisive ruling on February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court of Nigeria invalidated the controversial local government elections conducted in Rivers State on October 5, 2024. This judgment effectively removes all local government chairmen from office, citing egregious violations of the Electoral Act by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). The verdict sends shockwaves through the political landscape, reaffirming the judiciary’s role as the ultimate guardian of constitutional democracy.

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Supreme Court Delivers Unanimous Verdict

Delivering the lead judgment, Justice Jamilu Tukur minced no words in condemning the flawed electoral process. The apex court found RSIEC guilty of continuing voter registration even after announcing the election date—a fundamental breach of electoral guidelines. Citing Section 150 of the Electoral Act, the court ruled that this violation rendered the entire election process null and void.

"This court will not allow any act that undermines the sanctity of our electoral process," Justice Tukur stated firmly. "Where electoral laws are flouted, the entire process stands tainted."

The ruling immediately nullifies all actions taken by the now-removed local government chairmen and effectively dissolves the existing local government structure in Rivers State.

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Far-Reaching Implications for Rivers State Governance

With this ruling, all local government administrations in Rivers State stand dissolved. This decision not only reinforces the Supreme Court’s commitment to upholding electoral integrity but also delivers a strong message to electoral bodies nationwide: procedural errors will not be tolerated.

This latest development follows a previous judgment by the Rivers State High Court in May 2024, which struck down an attempt to extend the tenure of local government chairmen by six months. Justice D.G. Kio had ruled that Local Government Law No. 2 of 2024 was unconstitutional and inconsistent with Section 9(1) of Rivers State Local Government Law No. 5 of 2018, which firmly sets the tenure for local government officials at three years.

The Supreme Court’s ruling solidifies this stance, ensuring that no political maneuvering can override constitutional limits on public office tenure.

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Political Fallout and the Federal Clampdown

Beyond the dissolution of local governments, the Supreme Court’s ruling also touches on broader political conflicts in Rivers State. The court issued a damning verdict against Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s recent actions, ruling that his attempt to present an appropriation bill before a four-member House of Assembly—excluding twenty-eight other lawmakers—was unconstitutional.

Additionally, the court ordered the reinstatement of Speaker Martin Amaewhule and directed all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to resume legislative duties. This move curtails the governor’s attempts to sideline opposition lawmakers and reinforces the constitutional structure of legislative governance.

The Supreme Court further barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other federal agencies from disbursing funds to Rivers State until the government complies with previous court rulings. This financial sanction is a clear warning against executive lawlessness and underscores the judiciary’s power to enforce compliance with constitutional mandates.

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A Defining Moment for Nigerian Democracy

This ruling is more than just a legal pronouncement—it is a watershed moment for Nigeria’s democratic institutions. By striking down an election marred by irregularities and reinforcing legislative authority, the Supreme Court has reaffirmed the rule of law as the foundation of governance.

For Rivers State, the road ahead remains uncertain. The nullification of the local government elections creates a power vacuum that must be addressed through fresh, constitutionally compliant elections. Meanwhile, the governor’s legislative setback signals a shifting power balance in state politics.

One thing is clear: the judiciary has sent an unequivocal message—elections must adhere to the law, and no branch of government is above constitutional scrutiny.

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A New Chapter for Rivers State

As the dust settles, Rivers State faces a crucial transition period. The Supreme Court’s ruling has not only dismantled an illegitimate electoral process but has also reset the political equilibrium. The coming months will be pivotal in determining how the state government navigates this judicial mandate and restores democratic order.

For Nigeria, this case will serve as a benchmark for future electoral disputes, reinforcing the judiciary’s role as the ultimate arbiter of electoral justice. With a clear mandate from the Supreme Court, Rivers State must now chart a new course—one that adheres strictly to the tenets of democracy and the rule of law.