In a strong statement released on Sunday, several civil society organisations have called on Rivers State residents to boycott the upcoming local government council elections, describing the process as unconstitutional and lacking democratic legitimacy.
The organisations raised concerns over the conduct of the election under the supervision of a sole administrator, a move they claim violates Nigeria’s constitutional provisions regarding democratic governance at the local level.
Speaking under a joint platform, the groups condemned the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for allegedly collaborating with the state government to undermine democratic processes. They argued that holding elections without proper legal frameworks, and under an unelected caretaker arrangement, is a direct affront to the rule of law.
One of the representatives stated, “We urge all well-meaning residents of Rivers State to boycott the illegitimate council polls. Participating in such a flawed exercise only gives credibility to a process that lacks constitutional backing and public trust.”
The call for a boycott comes amidst ongoing political tension in Rivers State, following months of disputes between rival factions within the state government and growing criticism of Governor Siminalayi Fubara's administration over governance practices.
While the state electoral body has maintained that the election will go ahead as scheduled, civil groups insist that any election conducted under a sole administrator is not only undemocratic but could be challenged legally.
As the controversy continues, observers await possible reactions from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, and other key stakeholders.