From Tony John, Port Harcourt
The Rivers State Councillors’ Forum has raised concerns about alleged plans by some local government area (LGA) chairmen to disrupt the peace in the state through protests. The forum claims that these protests are motivated by the recent payment of salaries by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
In a communique issued after a meeting in Port Harcourt, five councillors from different LGAs expressed their concerns about the “uncomplimentary utterances” of some political leaders against the governor. They alleged that the LGA chairmen are planning to mobilize “miscreants” in the guise of a Councillors’ Forum to cause chaos.
The forum stated that the chairmen, whose terms are ending soon, are resorting to making “unwarranted and unguided statements” to sabotage the governor’s administration. They pointed out that the governor has paid all civil servants and political appointees, making any protests unnecessary.
They praised Governor Fubara’s commitment to service delivery and his proactive and peace-driven policies. They accused the chairmen of greed and self-centeredness, highlighting their failure to use allocated funds effectively and their lack of transparency in budget presentations.
The forum further alleged that some chairmen have been illegally attempting to extend their tenure, which they strongly oppose. They called on the governor to alert security agencies to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order.