The newly appointed Caretaker Committee Chairmen for the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Rivers State have officially commenced their duties following a swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, June 19, where they dissolved all standing committees and task forces previously established by ousted council chairmen.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara administered the oath of office to the chairmen at the Government House in a bid to restore administrative stability across the state.
He emphasized the need for promoting peace and assured the chairmen of his support during this transitional period.
Addressing the media shortly after assuming office adjacent to the council secretariat in Ogu/Bolo LGA, Evans Bipi, the CTC Chairman, outlined his administration’s priorities. He highlighted human capital development, economic empowerment, and job creation as pivotal to enhancing living standards in the area.
“We will focus on human capital development and economic empowerment. Infrastructure without food in your stomach is zero,” Bipi affirmed, underscoring his commitment to tackling hunger and poverty through strategic initiatives.
He called for dedication from his committee members, urging them to uphold honesty and steadfastness in their roles.
“All former administration properties must be returned immediately. I hereby dissolve all standing committees,” he declared, reinforcing his stance on efficient governance.
Similarly, in Eleme LGA, CTC Chairman Brain Gokpa assured stakeholders of his commitment to prioritize security and discipline. Reflecting on his experience in local security dynamics, Gokpa pledged inclusivity and transparency in governance.
“We will not tolerate indiscipline or property destruction. All standing committees are dissolved, and revenue management is now under strict supervision,” Gokpa announced, signaling a new phase of governance in Eleme.
Meanwhile, in Khana LGA, Marvin Yorbana, the newly sworn-in chairman, outlined plans for an inclusive administration focused on youth empowerment and economic growth. He reiterated the governor’s directive to promptly address salary payments and ensure efficient service delivery.
“All former appointees are dissolved with immediate effect. We are committed to empowering our people and attracting investments to Khana,” Yorbana affirmed, rallying support for collaborative efforts towards community development.
The chairmen’s actions underscored a decisive move towards restructuring local governance and restoring public confidence amidst ongoing transitions in Rivers State.
As they settle into their roles, their mandate includes fostering stability, enhancing service delivery, and addressing the immediate needs of their respective LGAs.