Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has vowed to take firm action against those responsible for the arson attack on three local government secretariats in the state on Monday.
He assured that this incident, unlike previous ones, will not be overlooked, as his administration will work closely with security agencies to identify and prosecute the culprits.
Governor Fubara made this statement during the swearing-in ceremony of four new commissioners at the Executive Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt.
He reminded the audience that he had previously warned the new council chairmen of possible attacks, and commended his supporters for maintaining calm during the violent confrontations.
Expressing regret that the recent political crisis has overshadowed his administration’s achievements, the governor announced plans to dedicate a day later this month to highlight these accomplishments.
In his address to the newly appointed commissioners, Governor Siminalayi Fubara called on them to collaborate with him in advancing the nation’s progress amidst ongoing socio-economic challenges.
He emphasized the importance of boosting oil production by addressing the issue of crude oil theft.
Regarding the appointment of additional commissioners, Fubara explained that his choices were made carefully to ensure loyalty and dedication while maintaining political balance across various regions.
The new commissioners include Otamiri John-Ngubo, the former Caretaker Committee Chairman and APP Chairmanship candidate for Etche, who, unlike his counterparts in other local government areas, did not secure the seat.
Also appointed is Evans Bipi, the former Caretaker Committee Chairman of Ogu/Bolo and a notable figure in the 2013 altercation in the Rivers State House of Assembly during his tenure as a lawmaker.
Joining him are former State Lawmaker Benibo Alabraba and Israel Lebura-Ngbuelu.
Governor Fubara’s resolve to hold the arsonists accountable follows the attacks on two local government secretariats earlier on Monday.
Both the Ikwerre and Emohua Local Government Council secretariats were set ablaze yesterday after the Commissioner of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the withdrawal of officers securing the 23 council secretariats.
The incident has escalated into widespread uproar, with accusations flying between parties. In response, President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Police Force to reinstate security at all 23 local government secretariats to restore order.