Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents that his administration will comply with the Supreme Court’s verdict after thoroughly reviewing its Certified True Copy (CTC).
The apex court, in a ruling on Friday, declared the local government elections held in the state on October 5, 2024, invalid.
In a state broadcast on Sunday, Fubara revealed that he had met with his legal team, which expects to obtain the CTC by Friday, March 7, 2025. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to upholding constitutional principles and ensuring due process.
Following the Supreme Court’s decision, the governor directed Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to assume immediate control of the 23 local government councils. These civil servants will oversee administrative affairs until fresh elections are conducted by the State Electoral Commission. Fubara also ordered outgoing council chairmen to officially hand over to the HLGAs by Monday.
Amid the political uncertainty, the governor called for calm, assuring citizens that his administration remains committed to governance and the rule of law.
In a separate ruling on Friday, the Supreme Court barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other financial agencies from releasing funds to the Rivers State government until it complies with previous court orders.
Additionally, the court dismissed Fubara’s cross-appeal challenging the legitimacy of the House of Assembly led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule. In the judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, the five-member panel ordered Amaewhule and other elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to resume legislative duties immediately.