The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has announced a new date for the 2025 local government elections. The elections, initially scheduled for August 9, will now hold on Saturday, August 30, 2025.
Chairman of RSIEC, Justice Michael Odey (rtd.), made this known during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Monday at the Commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt. He explained that the postponement became necessary following the state of emergency declared in the state, which disrupted the Commission’s original timetable.
“Given the prevailing circumstances and recent disruptions, it became imperative to adjust the calendar to ensure a credible, inclusive, and peaceful electoral process,” Odey stated.
During the meeting, RSIEC also unveiled a revised timetable and election guidelines, which outline fresh dates for political party primaries, screening, campaign activities, and the main council polls.
According to the updated schedule: Party primaries will take place between Wednesday, July 31 and Saturday, August 3, 2025, Submission of nominated candidates’ names is fixed for August 3 and 4, Campaigns will officially begin on Tuesday, August 12, allowing over two weeks for political mobilization and voter engagement, Recruitment of ad-hoc staff is slated for Saturday, August 16, The final list of candidates will be published on Wednesday, August 20.
The RSIEC chairman emphasized that the Commission is committed to ensuring transparency and fairness throughout the process, adding that all political parties must adhere strictly to the new deadlines.
Stakeholders at the meeting, including political party leaders, election observers, civil society groups, and journalists, were given the opportunity to review the revised guidelines and provide feedback on logistical and operational concerns.
RSIEC further assured the public of its readiness to conduct free, fair, and credible local government elections that would reflect the will of the people.
