Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has directed the Heads of Personnel Management (HPMs) to assume control of the 23 local government councils in the state following the recent Supreme Court judgment on the state’s lingering political disputes.
In a state broadcast on Sunday, Fubara acknowledged the apex court’s pronouncements, stating that although his administration disagreed with the verdict, it would abide by it as a law-abiding government.
“Since inception, we have conducted the affairs of government within the framework of our constitution, due process, and rule of law. While we are not above mistakes because we are human, we believe that we have not, as a government, done anything deliberate to trample on the rule of law or the hallowed principles of constitutional governance,” he said.
Fubara revealed that he had consulted with his legal team, who informed him that the certified true copy of the judgment might be available by Friday, March 7, 2025. He assured the people of Rivers State that his government would study the details of the ruling and implement it accordingly to ensure the state’s progress.
Citing the Supreme Court’s ruling against caretaker committees in local government administration, the governor directed all outgoing council chairmen to hand over to the HPMs by Monday, March 3, 2025. The HPMs, he said, would oversee the councils pending fresh elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
While acknowledging the challenges the state is facing, Fubara urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities peacefully, assuring them of his government’s commitment to their welfare.
“Although our dear state seems to be back in trying times, I urge everyone to remain calm and peacefully go about their legitimate daily activities as we continue to do everything in our power to advance our responsibilities to the citizens,” he said.
The Supreme Court’s judgment is expected to have significant implications for the political landscape of Rivers State, with attention now shifting to the next steps in implementing the ruling.
