The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission has announced that local government elections will be held on October 5.
This decision was disclosed on Monday in Port Harcourt, the state capital, following a meeting with political party leaders and key stakeholders.
During the meeting, the commission unveiled the timetable and guidelines for the upcoming elections.
This announcement initiated the preparation process after Governor Sim Fubara dissolved the previous councils at the end of their tenure.
In their place, caretaker committees have been appointed to manage local government affairs.
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The transition has not been without controversy, as the former chairmen have contested their removal, citing a six-month tenure extension granted by the Martins Amaewhule-led legislators.
To prevent potential clashes, the police have taken control of all 23 local government secretariats pending a Court of Appeal decision.
Tensions have been high, with a recent protest in Eberi-Omuma, Omuma LGA, resulting in the deaths of a policeman and a local vigilante member.
The police stated that barricading the councils was necessary to prevent further violence.
Further details will be provided as they become available.
