The Supreme Court of Nigeria has declared the local government elections conducted in Rivers State on October 5, 2024, null and void.
The apex court’s five-member panel, led by Justice Jamilu Tukur, delivered the judgment on Friday, setting aside the decision of the Court of Appeal and restoring the earlier ruling of the Federal High Court.
The case stemmed from a challenge to the legitimacy of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) in conducting the elections. Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja had initially restrained RSIEC from proceeding with the polls, citing the absence of an updated voter register.
The court had directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide an updated register before the elections could be conducted.
However, the Court of Appeal overturned this decision, ruling that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction over the matter. The Supreme Court has now reversed the appellate court’s ruling, upholding the Federal High Court’s decision that the elections were invalid due to non-compliance with electoral requirements.
This ruling has far-reaching implications for local governance in Rivers State. By declaring the election void, the Supreme Court has effectively nullified the legitimacy of all elected local government officials from the October 2024 polls. It is now expected that fresh elections will be conducted in accordance with the court’s directives, pending compliance with electoral laws.
The Supreme Court’s decision also reinforces the importance of strict adherence to legal and procedural requirements in the conduct of elections. It underscores the judiciary’s role in ensuring that electoral processes are transparent, fair, and compliant with constitutional provisions.
Another significant aspect of the judgment is the restriction placed on security agencies during the elections. The Federal High Court had previously barred the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies from providing security for the election, emphasizing concerns about neutrality and potential interference.
Political analysts and legal experts have lauded the Supreme Court’s verdict as a reaffirmation of the judiciary’s independence and its commitment to upholding the rule of law.
The Rivers State government and electoral commission are now expected to respond to the ruling, with stakeholders anticipating further legal and administrative steps to resolve the situation.
The Supreme Court’s ruling is final and binding, leaving no further avenue for appeal. As Rivers State navigates the aftermath of this decision, all eyes will be on the government’s next move in ensuring a lawful and credible electoral process.
