Southern Governors Back Fubara on Tenure of Local Government Chairmen in Rivers State

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Governors from Nigeria’s southern region have expressed their support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s stance regarding the tenure of local government chairmen in Rivers State. This endorsement comes amidst a political debate concerning the tenure extension of local government officials.

Dapo Abiodun, the Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum and Governor of Ogun State, has emphasized the constitutional limitations on the tenure of elected public officials. He stated, "The law is clear on the tenure of elected officials. Once it expires, extending it by any means is unconstitutional." Abiodun's remarks were in response to the Rivers State House of Assembly's attempt to extend the tenure of local government chairmen, a move that Governor Fubara opposed by appointing caretaker chairmen instead.


Abiodun warned that allowing tenure extensions could set a dangerous precedent, potentially undermining Nigeria’s democratic processes. “Extending the tenure of an elected local government chairman beyond its expiration would be an abuse of democratic principles and could disrupt the democratic process in Nigeria,” he noted. Abiodun stressed the importance of adhering strictly to constitutional provisions to avoid setting precedents that might be exploited in the future.

The Southern Governors Forum also discussed infrastructural development, praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the coastal road project. Abiodun highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “This road connects almost all southern states and is crucial for economic development and job creation.” The governors underscored the need for a modal transport master plan to integrate rail, water, and road transportation, facilitating investment and enhancing the movement of goods and services within the region.


In conclusion, the Southern Governors’ unified stance with Governor Fubara underscores their commitment to upholding constitutional integrity and promoting regional development. Their collective opposition to tenure extensions serves as a firm reminder of the importance of maintaining democratic principles in Nigeria’s governance.


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