Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Sets August 9, 2025, for LGA Elections
Port Harcourt, March 5, 2025 – In a significant development for local governance in Rivers State, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has reportedly announced August 9, 2025, as the date for the Local Government Area (LGA) elections.
The announcement aligns with RSIEC’s ongoing efforts to comply with a recent Supreme Court ruling. On February 28, 2025, the apex court sacked the 23 LGA chairmen elected on October 5, 2024, citing irregularities and a violation of electoral laws by RSIEC during the previous election process.
The decision invalidated the tenure of the chairmen, who were loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and mandated the commission to organize fresh elections within a stipulated timeframe.
Today, March 5, 2025, RSIEC is holding a stakeholders’ meeting at its headquarters in Port Harcourt at 2:00 PM to unveil the official timetable and guidelines for the forthcoming polls, lending credence to the possibility of this newly reported election date.
The announcement signals a six-month preparation period, allowing political parties, candidates, and the electorate to gear up for what promises to be a highly contested election in the oil-rich state. The choice of a Saturday aligns with Nigeria’s tradition of holding elections on weekends to maximize voter turnout.
The backdrop to this development is a politically charged atmosphere in Rivers State. The October 2024 LGA elections, conducted under the leadership of RSIEC Chairman Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retired), were marred by controversy, including allegations of bias and non-compliance with electoral guidelines.
The Supreme Court’s ruling last week underscored the need for a transparent and lawful process, placing pressure on RSIEC to restore public confidence. Political analysts suggest that the upcoming elections will serve as a litmus test for Governor Fubara’s administration and its ability to navigate the state’s complex political landscape, especially amid tensions with factions loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike.
Details of the August 9 election remain speculative until RSIEC releases an official statement.
However, the commission’s actions today are expected to clarify the timeline, nomination processes, and eligibility criteria for candidates. Stakeholders, including representatives from political parties, civil society organizations, and security agencies, are attending the Port Harcourt meeting to ensure their voices shape the electoral framework.
Residents of Rivers State have greeted the news with mixed reactions. “We need leaders who will work for the people, not just politicians fighting for power,” said Chika Amadi, a trader in Diobu. Others expressed hope that a firm election date would end the uncertainty that has lingered since the Supreme Court’s decision.
