Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara says the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as Amended) has no provision for tenure elongation for elected Local Government Chairmen.
The governor revealed this in a press briefing after a security council meeting with heads of security agencies in Port Harcourt.
According to him, the security council meeting was held due to the threat to the peace of the state generated from the tenure expiration of the outgone local government councils chairmen.
“We will fearlessly lead the way to ensure that peace continues to prevail in the state while protecting all patriotic supporters for their stand on the path of truth.
“The law on local government tenure is unambiguous. The court clearly affirmed the position of the law.
“The law is the law, there is no extension of the local government tenure in it. The court says so,” he said.
Governor Fubara in his promise to protect his supporters and resist any form of intimidation, directed heads of administration in the 23 local government areas to take over from the elected council chairmen.
He said the decision corresponds with the provisions of the Constitution and the need to ensure peace and order in the state, appreciating the efforts and dedication of the council chairmen to public service.
Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed that two people were killed, stressing that investigations are ongoing to ensure justice to the victims.
“Following the breakdown of law and order in the various local government council secretariats in Rivers State where supporters of the two political factions clashed over the tenure of council chairmen, a case of death was recorded at Eberi-Omuma, Omuma LGA, where a police officer and a vigilante were killed.
“To forestall more bloodshed and prevent a further breakdown of law and order, the police have taken over all the 23 council secretariats and some critical government infrastructure in the state.
“Conventional police officers and anti-riot police officers have been deployed to these facilities.
“While urging all groups and individuals to be law-abiding, the Command also warns anyone who intends to cause mayhem as we will not hesitate to impose the full weight of the law on them.” She said in a statement.
She then advised residents and citizens to continue their daily activities, insisting that the situation was under control.
“We also wish to ask the law-abiding residents and visitors in the state to go about their lawful businesses without fear. We are resolved to carry out our constitutional duty of protecting lives and property.” She concluded.
saharandaily