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Governor Fubara Swears in Caretaker Chairmen for 23 LGs in Rivers State

Written by Jerry Alomatu on June 19, 2024

News Views: 57

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has sworn in caretaker chairmen for the state’s 23 local government areas. The inauguration took place on Wednesday at the Executive Council Chambers in Port Harcourt, just hours after the State House of Assembly, led by factional Speaker Victor Jumbo, screened and confirmed the nominees.

The swift appointments came as former council chairmen refused to vacate their offices following the expiration of their terms, intensifying the political crisis in the state. The House of Assembly had received the list of nominees on Tuesday, and the screening commenced early Wednesday morning.

The political tension escalated when youths supporting Governor Fubara dislodged the former chairmen who were defying orders to leave office. The unrest led to violent clashes, including an incident at the Eberi-Omuma secretariat, where a policeman was killed.

To ensure order, the police have taken control of the 23 council secretariats. Governor Fubara’s appointment of new caretaker chairmen aims to restore stability and facilitate local governance.

The appointed caretaker chairmen are:

1. Abua/Odua LGA – Madigai Dickson
2. Ahoada East LGA – Happy Benneth
3. Ahoada West LGA – Mr. Daddy John Green
4. Akuku Toru LGA – Otonye Briggs
5. Andoni LGA – Reginald Ekaan
6. Asari Toru LGA – Orolosoma Amachree
7. Bonny LGA – Alabota Anengi Barasua
8. Degema LGA – Anthony Soberekon
9. Eleme LGA – Brain Gokpa
10. Emouha LGA – David Omereji
11. Etche LGA – John Otamiri
12. Gokana LGA – Kenneth Kpeden
13. Ikwerre LGA – Darlington Orji
14. Khana LGA – Marvin Yobana
15. Obia/Akpor LGA – Chijioke Ihunwo
16. Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA – Princewill Ejekwe
17. Ogu/Bolo LGA – Evans Bipi
18. Okrika LGA – Princess Ogan
19. Omuma LGA – Promise Reginald
20. Opobo/Nkoro LGA – Enyiada Cookey-Gam
21. Oyigbo LGA – Gogo Philip
22. Port Harcourt LGA – Ichemati Ezebunwo
23. Tai LGA – Matthew Dike

This development marks a significant move by Governor Fubara to address the ongoing political instability and ensure effective governance at the local level.