Southern Governors Back Fubara’s Stance on Local Government Tenure Extension in Rivers State
In a resounding show of unity and adherence to constitutional principles, the governors of the southern region of the country have thrown their unequivocal support behind Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s firm stand against the extension of tenure for local government chairmen in Rivers State.
The chairman of the Southern Governors Forum, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, minced no words as he declared the stance against tenure extension as a defense of democratic values and respect for the rule of law. Governor Abiodun emphasized that the law explicitly outlines the tenure of elected officials and any attempt to extend it via unconventional means is unconstitutional.
The political turbulence in Rivers State stemmed from the Rivers State House of Assembly’s decision to extend the tenure of local government chairmen, a move vehemently rejected by Governor Fubara, who swiftly appointed caretaker chairmen instead. Governor Abiodun issued a stark warning against the perilous precedent that tenure extension could set if allowed to stand, cautioning that it might threaten the very fabric of democracy in Nigeria.
On a positive note, the governors also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructural development in the region, particularly lauding the initiative to construct a coastal road that would foster regional integration and enhance economic opportunities. Emphasizing the importance of infrastructure in driving economic growth and facilitating investment, the governors underscored the need for a collaborative effort between the federal and state governments in infrastructure development, including the possible transfer of certain Trunk A roads to states willing to manage them.
The Southern Governors’ resolute stance on upholding democratic principles and promoting regional development signals a united front in safeguarding the constitutional framework and advancing the collective prosperity of the southern states.
