The Abuja division of the Federal High Court has dismissed a lawsuit brought by Chidi Lloyd and 20 former council chairmen from Rivers State, which aimed to extend their tenure that officially ended on June 16, 2024.
The former chairmen have taken legal action to extend their constitutionally mandated three-year terms, which have already expired. This request follows an amendment to the local government law enacted by the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, that allegedly extended their tenures by an additional six months.
In the case identified as suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/537/2024, Justice James Omotosho issued a ruling on Friday, dismissing the lawsuit on the grounds of lack of locus standi. The judge concluded that the former chairmen did not possess the legal authority to remain in their positions, deeming their continued tenure illegal. Justice Omotosho further asserted that the 21 former chairmen had ceased to hold their office upon the expiration of their terms and, therefore, had no legitimate basis for protest.
Despite a controversial ruling that sought to prevent it, the Rivers State government successfully conducted local council elections on October 5, 2024. The newly elected chairpersons were officially sworn in the following day, October 6, 2024.
