Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State recently inaugurated new caretaker chairmen for the 23 local government areas of the state. The swearing-in ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital, amidst stringent security measures. Reports indicate that the first group of 11 CTC chairmen are currently taking their oath of office.
This event occurred a day after Governor Fubara submitted the list to the state House of Assembly, which is currently presided over by factional Speaker, Victor Jumbo. It is worth noting that the legislators had invited the nominees for screening as early as 8 am on Wednesday.
The appointed caretaker chairmen for the various local government areas are as follows:
- 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
This development introduces a new dimension to the political turmoil in the state, following months after the Rivers Assembly passed the Local Government Amendment Bill. Although Governor Fubara did not approve the bill, the legislators, under the leadership of Martin Amaewhule, overruled his decision.
The legislation granted the Rivers State Assembly the authority to extend the tenure of council chairpersons, their vice, and councilors in cases where conducting elections before the conclusion of their three-year term is deemed unfeasible. However, a court invalidated the amended law, leading to an appeal. The appellate court is scheduled to issue a verdict on the matter on June 20, 2024.
