Despite multiple court cases and conflicting rulings, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reaffirmed that the Rivers LGA election on October 5, 2024, will proceed. The governor insists there is no legal barrier, as RSIEC prepares to conduct one of the most transparent elections in the state’s history.
Despite the mounting legal challenges and conflicting court orders, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has firmly reiterated his commitment to proceed with the upcoming Local Government Area (LGA) election scheduled for October 5, 2024. The governor’s determination comes in the face of significant court cases that have sought to delay or obstruct the process.
Governor Fubara, speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, emphasized that there was no legal barrier preventing the election. He made this declaration during a site visit to the Trans-Kalabari Road project on Monday, followed by an inspection of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). Fubara expressed his full confidence in the electoral commission’s readiness and vowed to ensure that the election proceeds without disruption.
“We have received confirmation from RSIEC that an order has been issued, mandating them to conduct the election on October 5. With that in place, we are pushing forward. This will be one of the most transparent elections in the history of our state,” the governor declared. He added that security agencies have been instructed to provide full support for the process, ensuring a peaceful and fair election.
Governor Fubara’s insistence comes as legal disputes escalate. On September 4, 2024, Justice I. Igwe of the Port Harcourt High Court ruled that the RSIEC must use the 2023 voter register, following a case filed by the Action People’s Party (APP). However, in a dramatic turn, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, issued an opposing ruling on Monday, halting the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from releasing the 2023 voter register to RSIEC for the elections. The court further barred the Inspector General of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) from providing security.
In light of these conflicting rulings, many have questioned the viability of the election. However, Fubara remains unfazed, dismissing any attempts to halt the electoral process. Sources within the state government revealed that the governor is resolute, having engaged in legal consultations that assure him of the legitimacy of his decision to proceed.
Political analysts have observed that this election has become a significant test of Governor Fubara’s leadership, especially given the legal battles. Some local government chairpersons have already begun lobbying for support and endorsements from traditional rulers in anticipation of the polls. Despite this, there remains dissatisfaction among some political actors who have voiced concerns over the timing and legality of the election.
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