Governor Fubara Vows to Bring Arsonists to Justice in Rivers State

Governor Fubara promises strict measures against arsonists following the destruction of government properties in Rivers State.

Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, has pledged to take firm measures against those responsible for torching three local government secretariats in the state on Monday.

He promised that, unlike in previous cases, this incident will not be overlooked. His administration will work with security agencies to identify those responsible and ensure they are held accountable.

Governor Fubara made this announcement at the swearing-in ceremony for four new commissioners held in the Executive Chambers of the government house in Port Harcourt.

He reminded the audience that he had previously cautioned the new council chairmen about potential attacks, and praised his supporters for remaining calm during the violent confrontations.

The governor expressed regret that the recent political crisis has overshadowed his administration’s achievements. He announced plans to dedicate a day later this month to highlight these accomplishments.

During his speech to the newly appointed commissioners, Governor Fubara encouraged them to collaborate closely with him in order to further the country’s progress despite ongoing socio-economic challenges.

He emphasized the importance of boosting oil production by addressing the problem of crude oil theft.

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Regarding the appointment of additional commissioners, Fubara clarified that his choices were thoughtfully made to ensure loyalty and dedication while also maintaining political balance across different regions.

The newly appointed commissioners include Otamiri John-Ngubo, who previously served as the Caretaker Committee Chairman and was also the APP Chairmanship candidate for Etche. However, unlike his counterparts in other LGAs, he did not succeed in securing the position.

Evans Bipi has also been appointed; he is the former Caretaker Committee Chairman of Ogu/Bolo and a notable figure from the 2013 altercation in the Rivers State House of Assembly during his tenure as a lawmaker.

Joining them are Benibo Alabraba, a former state lawmaker, and Israel Lebura-Ngbuelu.

Fubara’s resolve to hold the arsonists accountable was prompted by attacks on two local government secretariats that occurred on Monday.

Yesterday, the Ikwere and Emohua Local Government Council secretariats were set on fire after Police Commissioner Kayode Egbetokun withdrew police officers who had been securing all 23 council secretariats.

Since then, the situation has escalated into chaos with accusations flying back and forth. President Bola Tinubu subsequently instructed the Nigerian Police Force to secure the 23 local government secretariats.