Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has directed the state auditor general to initiate an audit of the accounts of the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) for the past three years. This decision comes amidst a political crisis affecting the state.

During the swearing-in ceremony for the newly appointed Caretaker Committee Chairmen of the LGAs, Governor Fubara emphasized that the audit aims to provide oversight for incoming officials. He advised the caretaker chairmen to prioritize the interests of their constituents and prove that the government made the right choice in their appointments.

Governor Fubara highlighted that the current political turmoil is a natural outcome of democratic processes. He asserted that the fight against tenure extensions is not just a state issue but a national concern, as setting a precedent in one state could lead to similar actions across the country.

He noted that the use of caretaker committees is a common practice in many states and assured that their tenure would be brief, as preparations for local government elections are underway. The governor also urged the new officials to avoid violence and focus on settling the salaries and entitlements of the outgoing chairmen.

The appointed caretaker chairmen 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