Human Rights Group Warns Ex-Council Members Against Crisis in Rivers

An international human rights organization, the Human Rights Advocacy Network (HRAN) has issued a strong warning to outgoing local government chairmen in Rivers State, sternly urging them to avoid actions that could lead to crisis. The group also called on security agencies to be proactive in maintaining law and order.

The chairmen’s tenure ended on June 17, 2024, but some, like Chidi Lloyd of Emohua Local Council, have refused to vacate their offices, referring to an alleged six-month tenure extension granted by the state assembly. However, HRAN clarified that this extension was nullified by a competent court, as it was inconsistent with the 1999 constitution and state laws.

“We read of the threats… to breach the peace and harmony in Rivers State by the immediate past local government chairmen… whose tenure expired by 12 noon today, June 17, 2024,” HRAN said in a statement. “The judgment of the Rivers State High Court which nullified the extension of the tenure of local government chairmen in Rivers State is yet to be set aside.”

The group apprised the former chairmen that their refusal to leave office is unlawful and treasonable, posing a direct threat to peace and stability. “The attempt to extend the tenure was unlawful and violated the officials’ oath of office,” HRAN pointed out.

HRAN encouraged security agencies to monitor the situation closely to prevent potential breaches of the law. “We call on security agencies to monitor closely, all 23 local government chairmen to prevent any potential breaches of the law,” the group said.

As earlier reported by TPCN news, Local unrest has already erupted, with youths blocking entrances to three Local Government secretariats in Kalabari, demanding the chairmen’s departure. Armed youths have also been seen patrolling riverine local councils.

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The situation follows a series of court rulings, including a state High Court invalidating the Local Government Law No. 2 of 2024 and an Appeal Court ruling encouraging both parties to maintain the status quo. HRAN emphasized that the judgment nullifying the tenure extension remains in force, and the former chairmen’s refusal to vacate their offices challenges the rule of law and stability. “The refusal of the former chairmen to vacate their offices is a direct challenge to the rule of law and the state’s stability,” HRAN said. “We urge all parties to respect the court’s decision and ensure a peaceful transition of power.”