Rivers State Ushers in New Council Leadership

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By Nwafor Oji Awala

Rivers State entered a new phase of grassroots governance on Monday as the Sole Administrator, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), swore in newly elected local government chairmen following last weekend’s elections conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).

The ceremony, held at Government House, Port Harcourt, brought together elected chairmen from across the 23 local government areas. In his charge, Admiral Ibas emphasized that the mandate given to the new leaders was not a trophy, but “a call to duty.”

“You have been entrusted with the responsibility to bring governance closer to the people,” the Sole Administrator declared. “Your conduct must reflect fairness, inclusiveness, and dedication to the welfare of all residents.”

He warned that the state government would hold council bosses accountable for misuse of public funds or failure to deliver on their responsibilities.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor pledged loyalty to the state government and promised that the councils would align their policies with initiatives aimed at peace, security, and sustainable development. The chairmen were directed to resume duties immediately in their respective local government headquarters.

The swearing-in followed last weekend’s elections, which were conducted under the supervision of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). The process has now ushered in a new administrative tenure at the grassroots level, signaling continuity of governance across the 23 local government areas.

As the new chairmen settle into office, expectations are high. Residents across Rivers State are looking to them for improvements in service delivery, transparency, and accountability in the use of public funds. For many communities, this moment represents not just the conclusion of an electoral process but the beginning of a fresh opportunity for development at the local government level.

Nwafor Oji Awala 

(c) Prime Heritage Magazine 


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