In a decisive move amidst the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has directed the state auditor general to conduct a comprehensive audit of the accounts of all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) for the past three years.

This announcement coincided with the swearing-in of the newly appointed Caretaker Committee Chairmen for the LGAs, a measure the governor said is aimed at ensuring accountability and preparing for the transition to new leadership.

Addressing the new chairmen, Governor Fubara stressed the importance of their roles, urging them not to “see themselves as superheroes,” but rather to focus on “protecting the interests of their people” and demonstrating that the government made the right choice in appointing them.

He reiterated that these appointments were a democratic response to the state’s political crisis, emphasising that the issue of tenure extension is a national concern.

“The fight against tenure extension is not just about the state, but the entire country,” Fubara stated, warning that allowing such extensions in one state could set a precedent for others.

The governor highlighted that Rivers State is not unique in its use of caretaker committees, noting that “most states in the country are also run by caretaker committees.”

He assured that these appointments would be temporary, with local government area elections planned to commence soon.

Fubara also cautioned against the use of violence, asserting, “it is not his approach,” and urged the officials to address the outstanding salaries and entitlements of the outgoing chairmen promptly.

The newly appointed caretaker chairmen include:

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 (Nigerian Tribune)