The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has announced October 5, 2024, as the date for the local government elections in the state. RSIEC Chairman Adolphus Enebeli made this declaration during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Port Harcourt on Monday. The decision comes in response to calls from various stakeholders following the expiration of the tenures of the previous local government chairmen and councilors.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara recently appointed caretaker committee chairmen for all 23 local government areas in the state, amid ongoing legal disputes over amendments to the Local Government Act proposed by the Martins Amaewhule-led group. These amendments are currently under scrutiny in the courts, with former local government chairmen, now serving as Caretaker Committee Chairmen (CTC), challenging their validity.

In light of these developments, police authorities have assumed control of the secretariats, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding the electoral process. Amidst the crisis, stakeholders have urged all parties involved to prioritize peace and unity for the overall welfare of the state.