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’s actions were void for failing to comply substantially with electoral guidelines, particularly continuing voter registration after announcing an 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 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.
The court stated that the government must first comply with previous court orders before accessing federal allocations.
Additionally, the court dismissed a cross-appeal by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, which challenged the validity of the Rivers State House of Assembly under Speaker Martin Amaewhule. Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, delivering the judgment, 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 actions regarding the alleged defection of 28 lawmakers as an attempt to prevent the Assembly from functioning.
The apex court also condemned the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex by the governor, calling it an abuse of executive power meant to obstruct the legislature.
