Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has charged the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission to conduct very credible local government elections.
Speaking after swearing in six new members of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) at the Government House Port Harcourt on Saturday, Governor Wike urged the commission not to allow itself to be influenced by any political interest.
He stated that the State Government will release the funds appropriated by the State House of Assembly for the conduct of the Local Government Elections to the commission.
The governor said though the Local Councils are still subject to litigation, the issues will be resolved by May 25, 2018.
Governor Wike said in line with the amended RSIEC law that stipulates ninety days notice before the conduct of elections, RSIEC should commence the process for the conduct of Local Government Elections.
He said: “Show Nigerians that you can conduct credible elections into council offices.
“Yes, we are in court, whatever the outcome will be by the 25th of May, 2018, the issues would have been resolved. The tenure would have lapsed by 25th May, 2018”.
He said if the Commission issues the notice for elections in February, by the first week of May elections would be held, setting the stage for elected council inauguration by 25th May, 2018.
The governor stated that he will never intefere in the workings of the RSIEC. He urged members of the commission to always work to uphold the law.
The RSIEC members that were sworn-in by the governor include:Dr Reginald Amadi, Professor Jones M. Jaja, Rev. Innocent Karibo, Mrs Florence Amiesimaka ,Mr Etete Festus and Prof Ezioma Ekpete.
