The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has officially rescheduled the 2025 local government elections to Saturday, August 30, shifting from the previously announced date of August 9.
Announcing the revised timetable at a high-level stakeholder meeting in Port Harcourt on Monday, RSIEC Chairman Justice Michael Odey (rtd.) explained that the postponement was prompted by the recent state of emergency in parts of the state, which disrupted logistical and preparatory timelines.
“Given the prevailing security and administrative conditions, it became necessary to adjust our electoral calendar to ensure a safe, credible, and inclusive process,” Odey said.
During the meeting—which included representatives from political parties, civil society groups, media organizations, and election observers—RSIEC unveiled the updated schedule and operational guidelines for the forthcoming polls.
Key Dates in the Revised RSIEC Timetable: Party Primaries: July 31 – August 3, 2025, Submission of Candidate Lists: August 3 – August 4, 2025
Election Campaigns Begin: Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Recruitment of Ad-Hoc Staff: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Display of Final Candidate List: Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Election Day: Saturday, August 30, 2025
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent and inclusive electoral process, urging all stakeholders to adhere strictly to the revised timeline.
Political watchers say the shift gives RSIEC additional time to bolster logistics, enhance security coordination, and encourage broader voter participation—especially in areas affected by recent unrest.
The local government elections will determine leadership across all 23 LGAs in the state, including chairpersons and councillors.
