Recall that the Rivers state governor on Tuesday morning, June 18, directed heads of administration in the 23 local government areas (LGAs) to take charge of the councils.
The move was however hinged on the expiration of the tenure of elected chairmen, their deputies, and councillors who were mostly loyal to the immediate past Rivers state governor and current FCT minister, Nyesom Wike.
In response, the group emphasized that during a period when some governors interfere with the democratic process by prematurely ending the mandates of elected officials, Fubara’s commitment to the rule of law and democratic governance stands out as a refreshing change.
In a statement signed by Johnson Babatunde, the NVRL applauded Governor Fubara for respecting the will of the people by allowing the officials to complete their tenure, The Nation reported.
Babatunde added that his decision shows exceptional respect for democracy, adding that this action proves Fubara to be a true democrat and a defender of citizens’ rights.
He said:
In contrast, the group criticized Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia for removing elected local government officials despite a court order.
Babatunde, furthermore, recalled that former Rivers state Governor Nyesom Wike similarly dissolved elected officials inherited from his predecessor in 2015, against court orders, Leadership reported.
Despite pressure from local government chairmen loyal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, Governor Fubara upheld their tenure, demonstrating his commitment to democracy.
In a related development, Siminalayi Fubara, the governor of Rivers, on Tuesday morning, June 18, directed heads of administration in the 23 local government areas (LGAs) to take charge of the councils.
This follows the expiration of the tenure of elected chairmen, their deputies, and councillors who were mostly loyal to the immediate past Rivers state governor and current FCT minister, Nyesom Wike.
Source: TimesNow.com.ng
