Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents that his administration will implement the recent Supreme Court verdict after reviewing its Certified True Copy (CTC).
This comes after the apex court nullified the local government elections held in the state on October 5, 2024, and ordered the suspension of federal allocations to the state’s local government areas.
During a statewide broadcast, Governor Fubara acknowledged the court’s ruling, stating that while his administration disagreed with the judgment, it remained committed to upholding the rule of law. He revealed that his legal team expected to obtain the CTC by Friday, March 7, 2025, after which the government would study its implications and implement the directives accordingly.
In response to the judgment, Fubara directed the Heads of Local Government Administration to take over the administration of the 23 local government councils until fresh elections are conducted. He also instructed outgoing council chairmen to officially hand over power by Monday, March 3, 2025.
South-South Leaders Call for Political Resolution
Following the Supreme Court ruling, prominent leaders from the South-South geopolitical zone urged Governor Fubara, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and other political stakeholders to seek a political solution without undermining the court’s decision.
Brigadier-General Idada Ikponmwen (retd.), a South-South leader, emphasized the need for a middle ground, urging politicians to resolve the crisis amicably. Similarly, Elder Joseph Ambakederimo, convener of the South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG), warned that the ruling could have severe economic, social, and political consequences if not properly managed.
Mixed Reactions from Political Stakeholders
Emmanuel Igbini, a former gubernatorial candidate in Delta State, viewed the judgment as a step towards reconciliation, believing it paves the way for political stability in Rivers State. Conversely, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) expressed dismay, arguing that the verdict could disrupt peace efforts in the region.
Ijaw leader Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe criticized the Supreme Court’s decision, claiming it was politically motivated. He questioned why Rivers State’s local government elections were invalidated despite the court’s stance on similar cases in other states.
Retired Delta judge Miakpor Emiaso also described the ruling as excessively punitive, cautioning that halting local government allocations could cripple governance. PANDEF echoed this sentiment, urging the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision for the sake of economic stability and national unity.
Bode George and Rivers Elders Weigh In
Former PDP Deputy National Chairman Chief Bode George supported Fubara’s decision to conduct fresh elections, describing it as the best course of action. He urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene, warning that withholding funds could exacerbate economic hardship in the state.
The Rivers State Elders Council, led by Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, called for unity between Governor Fubara and Speaker Martin Amaewhule. The elders urged both leaders to put aside personal interests and work together for the progress of Rivers State.
As tensions continue to rise, all eyes remain on Governor Fubara’s next steps in implementing the Supreme Court’s verdict while maintaining political stability in the state.
