The 23 local government elections in the state are now set for August 30, 2025, and the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, or RSIEC, has reaffirmed its commitment to holding free, fair, and credible elections.
RSIEC Chairman Michael Ekpali Odey promised that the Commission would strictly follow all electoral guidelines and make sure that voters cast their ballots without fear or intimidation during his remarks during the Monday announcement of the updated election schedule.
Odey stated that a chairman and vice chairman would be chosen for each of the state’s LGAs, in addition to one council member per ward.
In addition to restating the Commission’s transparency and dedication to inclusive electoral standards, he underlined the significance of consultation and cooperation with key stakeholders.
The chairman of the RSIEC also urged the public to support him by pledging a genuine and well-executed electoral process.
“Today is a significant turning point in our efforts to guarantee an inclusive, free, fair, transparent, and credible electoral process.
“The calendar we are revealing represents a dedication to due process and equity for all participants, not merely a list of events.
“Election administration is a multi-stakeholder enterprise.
“We are not claiming to know it all. That is why we will continue to consult, collaborate, and synergise with all critical stakeholders to ensure the integrity of this process.”
RSIEC on Monday officially announced the postponement of the local government elections.
The elections, initially scheduled for August 9, 2025, were moved following prevailing political developments in the state.
Announcing the new date, Odey cited constitutional provisions that empower the Commission to reschedule elections in the event of a crisis or potential unrest.
“You will recall that the 6th Commission, at a stakeholders’ meeting held on March 5, 2025, had announced August 9 as the date for the elections.
“However, given recent developments and based on Section 13(5) of the RSIEC Law, which permits a shift in date in the event of likely breach of peace or other emergencies, the Commission has deemed it necessary to reschedule the election.
“Therefore, by the powers vested in the Commission, I hereby announce the postponement of the earlier date and the approval of Saturday, August 30, 2025, for the conduct of chairmanship and councillorship elections across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State.”
The state’s only administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, disbanded the board of former RSIEC Chairman, retired Justice Adolphus Enebeli, who had established the initial date of August 9.
After the state’s democratic institutions were suspended, President Bola Tinubu nominated Ibas for a six-month term.
Later, he named Odey, another native of Cross River State, as the new chairman of the RSIEC. This decision has drawn condemnation from a number of sources, including prominent senators.
The Rivers State Police Command, meantime, has promised to maintain sufficient security prior to, during, and following the polls, guaranteeing citizens’ safety all along the way.
About The Author
