In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Nigeria nullified the local government elections conducted in Rivers State on October 5, 2024.
This ruling, delivered on February 28, 2025, has effectively removed the elected chairpersons from office, citing significant legal irregularities in the electoral process.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) had challenged the elections, arguing that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) failed to comply with mandatory legal prerequisites before conducting the polls.
Specifically, the APC contended that RSIEC did not obtain the voters’ register from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a requirement under Section 150(3) of the Electoral Act, 2010.
The Supreme Court upheld this argument, reinstating an earlier Federal High Court decision that barred INEC from releasing the voters’ register to RSIEC for the elections.
The apex court’s unanimous decision, delivered by a five-member panel led by Justice Uwani Abba-Aji, emphasized the necessity of adhering to legal protocols to ensure the credibility of elections.
The justices criticized the actions of former Governor Chibuike Amaechi and RSIEC for proceeding with the elections despite pending legal proceedings and court orders directing a status quo. This conduct was described as “executive recklessness” and a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
The nullification has significant implications for governance in Rivers State. With the elected officials removed from office, the state government may need to appoint caretaker committees to manage the affairs of the local governments until new elections are organized.
This development underscores the judiciary’s role in upholding democratic principles and ensuring that electoral processes comply with constitutional and legal standards.
The ruling has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of the decision argue that it reinforces the importance of following due process and serves as a deterrent against future electoral misconduct.
Critics, however, express concerns about potential administrative disruptions and the impact on local governance.
As Rivers State navigates this transition, the emphasis remains on restoring public trust in the electoral system and ensuring that future elections are conducted transparently and lawfully.