The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, RSIEC, has scheduled fresh Local Government Council elections for August 9.
The commission’s chairman, retired Justice Adolphus Enebeli, announced the date on Wednesday while unveiling the election timetable and guidelines in Port Harcourt.
Justice Enebeli reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election, urging political parties to comply with the rules and uphold democratic values. He stressed that all legal requirements would be strictly followed to avoid irregularities.
This development follows the Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate the October 5, 2024, local government elections. The apex court, in a ruling delivered by Justice Jamilu Tukur, faulted the process for violating the Electoral Act.
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Specifically, the judgment noted that RSIEC continued voter registration after the election date was announced, contravening Section 150 of the Electoral Act.
The court declared that the rushed preparations undermined the credibility of the exercise, rendering it unlawful.
With the new election date set, RSIEC has released a detailed timetable and guidelines outlining the procedures for political parties and candidates.
The commission is calling on all stakeholders, including political parties, security agencies, and traditional leaders, to collaborate in maintaining peace and ensuring a transparent electoral process.
As preparations intensify, political actors and voters are urged to engage constructively, adhering to the electoral guidelines to guarantee a credible and peaceful election across Rivers State.
Crediblenewsng.com
