Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State Directs Immediate Vacating of Rivers Council Seats
In a significant move, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has directed the outgoing chairpersons of local government councils to immediately vacate their seats. This directive follows the expiration of their tenure on Monday. In a broadcast on Tuesday morning, Governor Fubara announced, “Heads of local governments administration are hereby directed to immediately take charge of the councils and await further directives.”
Governor Fubara Orders Council Heads to Vacate Seats
Governor Fubara also took the opportunity to congratulate the outgoing chairpersons on completing their tenure, wishing them well in their future endeavors. This transition of power comes amidst growing tension in the state, particularly in local government areas such as Degema and Asari-Toru, where youths have taken over council headquarters demanding that the chairpersons vacate their offices.
Security Presence in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor LGAs
In response to the rising tensions, there has been a significant security presence in Port Harcourt City and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas (LGAs) to maintain order and prevent any potential disruptions. According to reports from Punch newspaper, the increased security is intended to ensure a smooth transition of power and to prevent any breakdown of law and order as the new administrative heads take over.
The local populace, particularly the youth, has been vocal in their demand for the outgoing chairpersons to leave office as their tenure has officially ended. The immediate takeover by administrative heads is seen as a necessary step to stabilize the situation and ensure the continuous operation of the local governments.
Thanksgiving Services and Legislative Controversies
Interestingly, only two council chairpersons – Enyiada Cooley-Gam of Opobo Nkoro and Anengi Barasua of Bonny Local Government – have held Thanksgiving services in preparation for their handover. The remaining 21 chairpersons are reportedly relying on a recent amendment to the local government law, which grants a six-month extension to council officials if the governor fails to conduct local government elections. This amendment, passed by lawmakers opposed to Governor Fubara, has added a layer of complexity to the situation.
The three-year tenure of the elected local government officials, who were sworn in under the administration of former Governor Nyesom Wike, has officially ended. As the situation unfolds, the residents of Rivers State are closely watching how the governor’s directives will be implemented and whether the legislative amendment will impact the transition of power.
