The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has announced a new date for the 2025 Local Government Elections, shifting the poll from August 9 to August 30, 2025. This development comes amid political tensions following the recent state of emergency declared in Rivers State.
RSIEC Chairman, Michael Odey, made the announcement during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt. This was his first official engagement with political actors, electoral observers, and the media since assuming office.
Odey explained that the rescheduling was necessary to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process. He assured that the Commission is fully prepared to deliver free, fair, and transparent elections, emphasizing a level playing field for all political parties.
However, the new date has sparked controversy among stakeholders. Saviour Oscar, a youth leader, voiced concerns over the short preparation window. He pointed out that electoral laws mandate a minimum of three months for campaigns, yet the new timetable leaves political parties with less than a month to mobilize.
Oscar also questioned the legality of holding elections under the current political climate, despite ongoing reconciliation efforts between the FCT Minister and the suspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
In contrast, Tony Okocha, factional Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, argued that there was no valid reason for a postponement. He stressed that preparations were already underway, and the current RSIEC leadership is capable of conducting credible polls.
Adding his voice, Nwisabarin Bani, Chairman of the National Youth Council, Rivers State chapter, maintained that the electoral process must proceed as scheduled, urging all parties to focus on the bigger picture of restoring democratic governance at the grassroots.
As reactions continue to trail the Commission’s decision, all eyes are now on RSIEC to see how it navigates the complex political terrain ahead of the new election date.
