Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has issued a directive for the Heads of Local Government Administration to immediately assume control of the 23 council areas across the state. This order follows the conclusion of the three-year terms of the elected local government chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors, which ended on Monday, June 17, 2024.
In a statewide broadcast on Tuesday morning, Governor Fubara addressed the transition of power. The announcement was further detailed in a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nelson Chukwudi, which was made available to the press on Tuesday.
In his address, the governor expressed his gratitude to the outgoing officials for their dedicated service. He stated, “I wish to acknowledge and commend the dedicated services of the outgoing elected local government chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors who were elected and sworn in three years ago, and whose tenure expired yesterday the 17th of June, 2024, as provided for by the law.
On behalf of the government and the people of Rivers State, I thank you all for your sacrifices and commend your commitment to public service and our dear Rivers State. I congratulate you all for the successful completion of your tenure and wish you well in your future endeavours.”
Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of upholding the constitution and maintaining law and order as the state moves forward. He directed the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to take over the leadership roles in their respective local government areas.
He stated, “As we move forward in making sure that the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is upheld, and that law and order is maintained as we continue to strive to provide leadership and direction for our people, I hereby direct Heads of Local Government Administration to continue to provide leadership in their respective local government areas.
Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) are hereby directed to immediately take charge of the councils with renewed vigour and readiness to serve and await further directives as we navigate towards even greater accomplishments together.”
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Rivers State, promising to continue delivering essential services and infrastructure. He added, “I assure you, my good people of Rivers State, that we shall continue to defend you, provide infrastructural development, sound healthcare delivery, quality education, and undiluted welfare service packages for all our people and workers. Once again, I thank you, my dear good people of Rivers State, for your steadfast support and dedication to our shared vision of unity, progress, and prosperity.”
Following the expiration of the local government officials’ tenure, there were reports of unrest in some areas. Youths in the Degema and Asari-Toru Local Government Areas took over the council headquarters on Monday. In response to potential security threats, a significant security presence was established in the Port Harcourt City Local Government Area and Obio/Akpor Local Government Area to maintain order.
Additionally, Obarilomate Ollor, the outgoing chairman of Eleme Local Government, issued a stern warning to those attempting to forcibly remove him from office. He declared that any such attempts would be met with resistance.
Governor Fubara’s directive and the ensuing developments highlight the complexities involved in the transition of local government leadership.
The governor’s swift action to appoint HLGAs aims to ensure stability and continuity in governance as the state navigates this period of change. His assurances of continued infrastructural and welfare improvements are intended to maintain public confidence and support during this transitional phase. Meanwhile, the security measures in key areas demonstrate the administration’s commitment to preventing disorder and safeguarding the well-being of its citizens.
