RIVERS: Assembly summons electoral chief over LG poll

This action follows a motion moved by Enemi George, the representative of Asari-Toru Constituency 2, during Wednesday’s plenary session.

Justice Enebeli had previously scheduled a fresh Local Government (LG) election for August 9, 2025, after the Supreme Court annulled the October 5, 2024, LG poll conducted in the state.

The Assembly, led by Martins Amaewhule, announced its intention to investigate the electoral chief’s role in the annulled election.

Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reassured residents that his administration will implement the Supreme Court’s verdict after reviewing its Certified True Copy (CTC).

During a state broadcast on Sunday, Fubara disclosed that he had met with his legal team, which expects to obtain the CTC by Friday, March 7, 2025.

He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding constitutional principles and acting within the law.

Following the Supreme Court’s ruling that nullified the October 5, 2023, local government elections, Fubara directed the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to assume control of the 23 local government councils until fresh elections are conducted by the State Electoral Commission.

In a separate ruling on Friday, the Supreme Court barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies from releasing funds to the Rivers State government until it complies with previous court orders.

Delivering the judgment, Justice Emmanuel Akomaye led a five-member panel in unanimously dismissing Governor Fubara’s cross-appeal challenging the legitimacy of the House of Assembly under Speaker Amaewhule.

The court ordered Amaewhule to reconvene the Assembly and resume legislative activities immediately with other elected members.