In a shocking move, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has directed the heads of local government administration to take over the 23 council areas, effectively removing the local council chairmen. This development comes as the statutory three-year tenure of elected local government chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors has expired.
The governor's action has sparked tension in the state, with youths in some areas seizing control of council secretariats and armed youths in riverine areas threatening to escort caretaker committees to councils. The police have called for calm and urged all parties to observe a ceasefire pending the resolution of legal disputes.
The crisis has also drawn in lawmakers, with 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike warning the governor against appointing caretaker members in the 23 local government areas. The lawmakers argue that such a move would be an aberration and go against the constitution.
As the transition crisis deepens in Rivers State, all eyes are on Governor Fubara and the stakeholders involved to see how the situation will be resolved. The coming days will be crucial in determining the direction of the state's local government administration.
What's Next for Rivers State?
The removal of the local council chairmen has raised questions about the future of local government administration in Rivers State. Will the governor's move lead to a smooth transition, or will it spark further chaos and instability? Only time will tell.
In the meantime, residents of Rivers State are calling for calm and urging all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution. The state's political leaders must prioritize the interests of the people and ensure that the transition crisis does not escalate further.
References
- "Rivers Governor, Fubara Removes 23 Local Council Chairmen As ..."
- "Pro-Wike lawmaker warns Fubara against appointing LG chairmen"
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