The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara on Sunday directed local government chairmen to formally hand over power to the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) by Monday, March 3, 2025.
The governor gave the directive in a statewide broadcast on Sunday evening, following the recent Supreme Court judgment outlawing caretaker arrangements in the local government system across Nigeria.
Governor Fubara emphasized that the transition is necessary to comply with the court’s ruling, which has rendered the current caretaker arrangements invalid. He instructed the HLGAs to take over the administration of the 23 local government councils in the state pending the conduct of fresh elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
“Given the outlawing of caretaker arrangements in the local government system, I hereby direct the Heads of Local Government Administration to immediately take over the administration of the 23 local government councils pending the conduct of fresh elections,” the Governor stated.
While expressing his administration’s disagreement with the Supreme Court’s judgment, Governor Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law. He noted that his government has always operated within the framework of the Constitution and due process.
“Although we disagree with the judgments, we are bound to obey the orders made therein as a law-abiding government. Since inception, we have conducted the affairs of government within the framework of our Constitution, due process, and the rule of law,” he said.
The Governor also revealed that his legal team is awaiting the certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgment, expected by Friday, March 7, 2025. He assured the people of Rivers State that his administration would study the judgment’s implications and implement its directives without reservations to ensure the state’s progress.
Governor Fubara acknowledged the challenges posed by the court’s pronouncements but urged residents to remain calm and peaceful. He called on the people to continue their daily activities without fear, assuring them that his administration remains committed to advancing good governance and maintaining stability in the state.
“Although our dear State seems to be back in trying times, I urge everyone to remain calm and peacefully go about their legitimate daily activities as we continue to do everything in our power to advance our responsibilities to the citizens,” he said.
The Governor’s directive comes amid heightened political tensions in the state, with the transition of power at the local government level expected to pave the way for fresh elections.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to transparency and the rule of law.
As the state prepares for this transition, all eyes will be on the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission to announce a timeline for the upcoming local government elections.
