Rivers State Prepares for Local Government Elections with Public Holidays and Movement Restrictions

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has announced public holidays on October 3 and 4, 2024, as part of preparations for the upcoming local government elections set for October 5, 2024. In a statewide address, Fubara urged the residents of Rivers State to engage actively in the elections, described as crucial for determining grassroots leadership.

The Governor declared a full restriction on both vehicular and human movement starting midnight on October 4, 2024, lasting until 5 p.m. on election day, October 5, 2024. Exceptions will be made for individuals and vehicles bearing valid identification for election duties and essential services.

Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of complying with these restrictions to ensure a peaceful election process. “The police and other security agencies have been instructed to arrest and prosecute anyone violating the movement restrictions,” he announced, highlighting security measures in place.

Fubara assured residents that the State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) is prepared to conduct free and fair elections for the 23 local government councils. The state government, he noted, has provided the necessary logistics and funds to facilitate the electoral process, in line with directives from the Rivers State High Court and the Supreme Court regarding local government administration.

The Governor reported that 17 out of the 18 registered political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), have indicated their participation by submitting candidates for the election. He encouraged all registered voters to participate, stating, “Security personnel will be present to maintain order and ensure peaceful polls.”

Meanwhile, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Rivers State, Dr. Johnson Sinikiem, denied allegations that the voters’ register had been released to the RSIEC. Sinikiem clarified that despite receiving requests from RSIEC, a Federal High Court order in Abuja has restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from releasing the register.

Alongside these developments, Tony Okocha, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of the APC in Rivers State, criticized Governor Fubara for allegedly disregarding legal mandates. Okocha pledged the party’s readiness to participate in the elections, despite concerns about the prevailing conditions.