In a significant move amidst the ongoing political turbulence in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has instructed the state auditor general to conduct a thorough audit of the accounts of the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) for the past three years. This directive was announced during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Caretaker Committee Chairmen of the LGAs, underscoring the governor’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
Governor Fubara emphasized that this auditing measure is crucial for ensuring that the incoming officials start their tenure with a clear and accurate understanding of the financial state of their respective LGAs. He remarked that the current political crisis in the state necessitates such measures to reinforce good governance and public trust.
Addressing the newly sworn-in caretaker chairmen, Governor Fubara urged them to prioritize the interests of their constituents. He advised them against seeing their new roles as positions of excessive power, but rather as opportunities to serve and demonstrate their capability and dedication. “You are not superheroes,” he stated, “but custodians of your people’s welfare. Your actions should reflect the government’s wisdom in choosing you for these roles.”
Furthermore, the governor contextualized the political events in Rivers State within the broader democratic framework of the country. He argued that the resistance against tenure extensions is a fight not just for the state, but for the integrity of democracy across Nigeria. Allowing unchecked tenure extensions in one state, he warned, could set a dangerous precedent for the entire nation.
Governor Fubara also noted that the use of caretaker committees to manage LGAs is not unique to Rivers State. He highlighted that many states across Nigeria operate under similar arrangements, thereby normalizing the practice. However, he reassured the public that these caretaker tenures would be brief, as preparations for local government elections are already underway.
In a stern message, he cautioned against any form of violence, reaffirming that such behavior is not in line with his administration’s principles. He called on the caretaker chairmen to ensure a smooth transition by addressing the salaries and entitlements of the outgoing officials promptly and fairly.
The governor then proceeded to list the appointed caretaker chairmen, who will now oversee the respective LGAs. The appointees are:
– 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
– Obia/Akpor LGA – Chijioke Ihunwo
– Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA – Princewill Ejekwe
– Ogu/Bolo LGA – Evans Bipi
– Okrika LGA – Princess Ogan
– Omuma LGA – Promise Reginald
– Opobo/Nkoro LGA – Enyiada Cookey-Gam
– Oyigbo LGA – Gogo Philip
– Port Harcourt LGA – Ichemati Ezebunwo
– Tai LGA – Matthew Dike
As these newly appointed officials embark on their roles, the governor’s clear directives and the impending audit set the stage for a period of accountability and dedicated service to the people of Rivers State. This development is poised to foster a more transparent and responsive local government structure, ensuring that the interests of the people remain at the forefront of governance.
