Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has taken decisive steps to address governance issues in the state by swearing in new caretaker chairmen for all 23 local government areas (LGAs).
The governor's actions come amidst a backdrop of political tensions and challenges stemming from the expiration of the tenures of former council chairmen who have refused to vacate their offices.
The inauguration ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital, under tight security.
The governor administered the oath of office to the caretaker chairmen following their screening and confirmation by the state House of Assembly earlier that day, led by factional Speaker Victor Jumbo.
According to a statement from the Clerk of the House, G.M. Gillis-West, the nominees were invited for screening as early as 8 am, underscoring the urgency with which Governor Fubara approached the matter.
The newly sworn-in caretaker chairmen include:
- Abua/Odua LGA – Madigai Dickson
- Ahoada East LGA – Happy Benneth
- Ahoada West LGA – Mr. Daddy John
Green
- Akuku Toru LGA – Otonye Briggs
- Andoni LGA – Reginald Ekaan
- Asari Toru LGA – Orolosoma
Amachree
- Bonny LGA – Alabota Anengi Barasua
- Degema LGA – Anthony Soberekon
- Eleme LGA – Brain Gokpa
- Emouha LGA – David Omereji
- Etche LGA – John Otamiri
- Gokana LGA – Kenneth Kpeden
- Ikwerre LGA – Darlington Orji
- Khana LGA – Marvin Yobana
Governor Fubara also used the occasion to announce a comprehensive audit of the accounts of all 23 LGAs spanning the past three years.
This audit, he stated, aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and financial discipline within the local government administration.
In his address, Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of the caretaker chairmen fulfilling their roles responsibly and effectively, urging them not to perceive themselves as superheroes but rather as servants of the people.
He underscored that their tenure, though temporary, must be focused on delivering quality governance and addressing the needs of their respective communities.
Furthermore, Governor Fubara ordered a probe into the tenures of the outgoing local government chairmen to ensure accountability and proper handling of public resources.
He cautioned against violence and affirmed his commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law in Rivers State.
The governor concluded by reiterating that the caretaker arrangements were not unique to Rivers State, citing similar practices across other states in Nigeria.
He assured that preparations for local government elections would commence soon, signaling a transition towards elected leadership at the grassroots level.
The
swearing-in ceremony and subsequent directives by Governor Fubara mark
significant steps towards stabilizing local governance and ensuring effective
service delivery across Rivers State.
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