On February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court nullified the Rivers State local government elections held on October 5, 2024. The court ruled that the elections broke Section 150 of the Electoral Act 2024. A five-member panel led by Justice Uwani Abba-Aji delivered the verdict. The panel found that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission failed to follow proper legal procedures. It noted that the RSIEC did not issue proper notice to all candidates and did not secure the voter register from INEC.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) filed an appeal against the election. APC leaders argued that RSIEC ignored key legal provisions during the polls. They claimed that the commission committed several irregularities. Their appeal gained support from many political figures who demanded a fair process. One APC leader said, “Our democracy depends on elections that follow the law.” He urged the state authorities to organize new polls immediately.
Earlier, on November 21, 2024, the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal ruled that the Federal High Court lacked the power to review the RSIEC’s conduct. At that time, the appellate court vacated an earlier judgment that barred INEC from releasing the voter register to RSIEC. The Supreme Court, however, later overturned this decision. The final verdict now nullifies the entire election process in Rivers State.
Political leaders and citizens reacted strongly to the decision. Many celebrated the court’s move as a win for democracy. They stressed that transparent elections are vital for good governance. They also called for strict adherence to constitutional rules. Community members voiced concerns that irregular elections weaken public trust in government institutions.
The ruling has unsettled the current local government leadership. Several elected chairmen now face uncertainty about their positions. Political analysts predict that the state may undergo major realignment soon. Experts believe that fresh elections will restore integrity to local governance. They insist that new polls must follow every legal guideline and respect voter rights.
Local communities and civil society groups demand an overhaul of the RSIEC system. They call for a commission that upholds the law and ensures full voter participation. Activists and electoral reform advocates rally for transparency and accountability in future polls. Their goal is to prevent similar irregularities from occurring again. They hope that a new system will restore confidence in the electoral process.
In response to the court’s order, state officials now work to organize new elections. They plan to secure a proper voter register and issue formal notices to all candidates. Authorities promise to hold a transparent and inclusive poll that reflects the will of the people. The government has committed to following every legal provision in the Electoral Act.
The Supreme Court’s decision marks a turning point for Rivers State local governance. It reinforces the importance of strict legal adherence in elections. The ruling challenges electoral bodies to meet high standards of transparency and fairness. It also reminds political leaders that the rule of law must prevail over irregular practices.
Citizens now watch closely as the state authorities prepare for new polls. They hope that these elections will restore public trust and deliver improved governance. The upcoming process carries the promise of a fresh start for Rivers State local government. Voters eagerly await an election that respects their rights and upholds democratic values. This landmark ruling stands as a powerful example of judicial intervention that safeguards democracy and fairness in Nigeria.
