The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has announced a new date of August 30, 2025, for the state’s local government elections, postponing the exercise originally slated for August 9.
The announcement was made on Monday by RSIEC Chairman, Justice Michael Odey (rtd), during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.
Odey explained that the decision to shift the date was due to the state of emergency declared in parts of the state, which disrupted preparations and created logistical setbacks.
“Given the current realities and disruptions caused by the emergency situation, it became necessary to adjust the electoral calendar to ensure credibility and proper conduct of the polls,” he said.
New Electoral Timetable and Guidelines Released
The Commission also unveiled a revised timetable, detailing fresh dates for party primaries, candidate screening, campaign periods, and ad-hoc staff recruitment.
Key highlights of the updated schedule include:
- Party Primaries: July 31 – August 3, 2025
- Submission of Candidates’ Names: August 3 & 4, 2025
- Start of Electioneering Campaigns: August 12, 2025
- Recruitment of Ad-hoc Staff: August 16, 2025
- Publication of Final List of Candidates: August 20, 2025
- Local Government Election Day: Saturday, August 30, 2025
The meeting was attended by political party leaders, electoral observers, civil society groups, and media representatives, who were given copies of the new guidelines and offered an opportunity to provide feedback.
Justice Odey assured stakeholders of the Commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and peaceful local council elections, emphasizing the importance of inclusive participation and adherence to the revised timeline.
