The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has officially postponed the 2025 local government elections to Saturday, August 30.

The announcement was made by RSIEC Chairman, Michael Odey, during the unveiling of the revised election timetable in Port Harcourt.

Odey explained that the shift in date was necessitated by prevailing conditions in the state and was anchored in the constitutional powers vested in the Commission.

According to him, Section 13(5) of the RSIEC Law empowers the Commission to postpone elections in the event of potential unrest, natural disasters, or emergencies, provided the reason is cogent and verifiable.

“You may recall that the 6th Commission convened a stakeholders’ meeting on March 5, 2025, and had fixed August 9 as the election date before the declaration of an emergency rule,” Odey stated.

“However, considering the current situation, the 7th Commission, in line with the RSIEC Law, has deemed it necessary to reschedule the polls.”

He affirmed that elections would now take place across all 23 local government areas of Rivers State on August 30, with voters electing council chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors.

Unveiling the revised timetable, Odey emphasized the Commission’s commitment to delivering a credible and inclusive electoral process.

“What we unveil today is more than just a timetable; it is a commitment to fairness, transparency, and strict adherence to due process,” he said. “Elections are not just periodic events but a sacred expression of the people’s will.”

He also stressed the Commission’s resolve to collaborate with key stakeholders and enforce all electoral laws.

“We will not act as a behemoth. Election administration is a multi-stakeholder endeavour. We will consult, collaborate, and synergize to ensure that the process is credible and reflective of the people’s choice.”

The RSIEC chairman assured residents that voters will have unfettered access to polling units and that the electoral environment will be secure and free of intimidation. He pledged strict compliance with timelines and guidelines, stating, “I have an incurable obsession for electoral due diligence and I make no apologies for that.”

Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has pledged to provide adequate security before, during, and after the elections, ensuring the safety of voters and electoral personnel across the state.