The Supreme Court has declared the local government election conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) on October 5, 2024, invalid due to gross violations of the Electoral Act.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Jamilu Tukur ruled that RSIEC failed to comply substantially with electoral guidelines, particularly by continuing voter registration after announcing the election date. The court held that the processes leading to the election were abridged, violating Section 150 of the Electoral Act.
In a separate ruling, the apex court barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other relevant agencies from releasing funds to the Rivers State Government. The court ruled that the state government must first comply with previous court orders before accessing federal allocations.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court dismissed a cross-appeal by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, which challenged the validity of the Rivers State House of Assembly under Speaker Martin Amaewhule. Delivering the judgment, Justice Emmanuel Akomaye ordered Amaewhule and other elected members to resume sitting immediately.
The court further ruled that it was unlawful for Governor Fubara to present the 2024 appropriation bill before a four-member House of Assembly, thereby denying 28 constituencies representation. It described Fubara’s handling of the alleged defection of 28 lawmakers as an attempt to prevent the Assembly from functioning.
Additionally, the Supreme Court condemned the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex, labeling it an abuse of executive power aimed at obstructing the legislature.
This ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, with far-reaching implications for governance and legislative processes in the state.
