Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has instructed all Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) in the state’s 23 local government areas to assume control of their councils starting today, Tuesday, June 18, 2024.

According to DAILY POST, this order comes after the terms of the 23 Local Government Area (LGA) Chairmen expired on Monday, June 17, 2024.

In a broadcast on Tuesday morning, Governor Fubara urged the HLGAs to “immediately take charge of the Councils with renewed vigor and readiness to serve, and await further directives as we work towards even greater accomplishments together.” He praised the outgoing LGA Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councilors for their dedication to their communities.

He congratulated them on successfully completing their tenures and wished them success in their future endeavors.

Fubara emphasized that this directive aligns with the law and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, ensuring the administrative gap left by the departing LGA Chairmen is promptly addressed.

The Governor reassured the residents of Rivers State of his dedication to their welfare, pledging to continue protecting their interests and providing infrastructure, quality healthcare, education, and comprehensive welfare services.

He expressed gratitude for the continued support from the people and affirmed his commitment to working together to build a brighter future for all.

Here is his full speech:

My fellow Rivers people,

1. I stand before you today with immense gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support for me and my administration.
2. I urge us all to reflect on the shared sacrifices we have made to ensure a peaceful and prosperous Rivers State and Nigeria. May we continue to live in peace and harmony as one.
3. Together, we have achieved milestones in various sectors, including infrastructure, health, education, workers’ welfare, improved service delivery, agriculture, and social welfare.
4. Your steadfast support has been the foundation of our progress, and for that, I extend my sincerest thanks.
5. I commend the dedicated services of the outgoing elected Local Government Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councilors, whose tenure expired yesterday, June 17, 2024, as stipulated by law.
6. On behalf of the Government and the people of Rivers State, I thank you all for your sacrifices and commend your commitment to public service and our dear Rivers State.
7. I congratulate you on successfully completing your tenure and wish you well in your future endeavors.
8. To uphold the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and maintain law and order, I direct Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to continue providing leadership in their respective Local Government Areas.
9. HLGAs are hereby directed to immediately take charge of the Councils with renewed vigor and readiness to serve, awaiting further directives as we strive for even greater accomplishments together.
10. I assure you, the good people of Rivers State, that we will continue to defend you, provide infrastructural development, sound healthcare delivery, quality education, and comprehensive welfare services for all our residents and workers.
11. Once again, I thank you, my dear good people of Rivers State, for your steadfast support and dedication to our shared vision of unity, progress, and prosperity.
12. Together, we will continue to build a brighter and better future for all.
13. Happy Salah Holiday.
14. God bless Rivers State.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.