Gov. Fubara Swears in New Caretaker Chairmen For River’s LGAs, Orders Accounts Audit

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has inaugurated the new caretaker chairmen for the state’s 23 Local Government Areas on Wednesday amid tight security at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt.

The inauguration followed the swift screening and confirmation of the nominees by the state House of Assembly, led by factional Speaker Victor Jumbo.

According to a statement from the House Clerk, G.M. Gillis-West, the assembly conducted the screening process as early as 8 am on Wednesday.

Governor Fubara had submitted the list of nominees to the House on Tuesday.

This swift nomination and confirmation process unfolded amidst a renewed political crisis in the state, with former council chairmen refusing to vacate their offices despite the expiration of their tenures.

During the ceremony, the first batch of 11 caretaker chairmen took their oaths of office, followed by subsequent batches. The swearing-in of the new local government leaders is critical in maintaining governance and administrative continuity in Rivers State.

The event underscores the ongoing political manoeuvring in the state as Governor Fubara seeks to assert control and ensure stability in the face of opposition and administrative challenges.

According to PUNCH, the ceremony was marked by a strong security presence, highlighting the tensions and high stakes surrounding local governance in Rivers State.

Fubara also mandated an audit of the financial records for the past three years of all 23 Local Government Areas.

The directive was issued to the state’s Auditor General on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Caretaker Committee Chairmen at the Executive Council Chamber in Government House, Port Harcourt.

The governor emphasised that this audit aims to ensure accountability and provide a reference for the incoming chairmen, promoting transparency in local council operations.