Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has officially sworn in 23 new caretaker chairmen for the local government areas, a ceremony held on Wednesday at the Government House in Port Harcourt amid tight security.
The swearing-in, conducted at the Council Chambers, saw the first batch of 11 caretaker chairmen taking their oaths of office. This move follows Fubara’s submission of the nominees to the state House of Assembly, led by factional Speaker Victor Jumbo, just a day prior.
The Assembly promptly invited the nominees for screening, which began early Wednesday morning. The newly appointed caretaker chairmen include:
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Abua/Odua LGA: Madigai Dickson
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Ahoada East LGA: Happy Benneth
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Ahoada West LGA: Daddy John Green
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Akuku Toru LGA: Otonye Briggs
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Andoni LGA: Reginald Ekaan
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Asari Toru LGA: Orolosoma Amachree
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Bonny LGA: Alabota Anengi Barasua
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Degema LGA: Anthony Soberekon
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Eleme LGA: Brain Gokpa
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Emouha LGA: David Omereji
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Etche LGA: John Otamiri
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Gokana LGA: Kenneth Kpeden
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Ikwerre LGA: Darlington Orji
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Khana LGA: Marvin Yobana
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Obia/Akpor LGA: Chijioke Ihunwo
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Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA: Princewill Ejekwe
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Ogu/Bolo LGA: Evans Bipi
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Okrika LGA: Princess Ogan
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Omuma LGA: Promise Reginald
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Opobo/Nkoro LGA: Enyiada Cookey-Gam
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Oyigbo LGA: Gogo Philip
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Port Harcourt LGA: Ichemati Ezebunwo
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Tai LGA: Matthew Dike
This development is the latest twist in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, which has seen the Assembly pass the Local Government Amendment Bill into law, only for Governor Fubara to withhold his assent. The Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, vetoed the governor, allowing the law to extend the tenure of local council chairpersons, their deputies, and councillors in situations where elections cannot be held on time.
A court ruling nullified this amended law, prompting an appeal with a decision expected on June 20, 2024. The controversy over tenure extensions has sparked protests, with figures like Rowland Sekibo and Onengiyeofori George of Akuku-Toru and Asari-Toru local councils calling for calm after youths barricaded local secretariats.
Supporters of Governor Fubara, particularly Ijaw youths, have demonstrated solidarity outside the Port Harcourt Local Government Area Secretariat, waving flags and displaying placards amidst a heavy security presence.
Meanwhile, Rivers State Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu has warned against any disturbances, assuring residents of peace and readiness to maintain order. He urged politicians and their supporters to respect the judicial process and cease hostilities until the appeal is resolved.
