Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara has initiated an audit of the activities of the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) over the past three years. This comprehensive review is aimed at assessing the proper utilization of funds allocated to these local governments during this period. The directive underscores the governor’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public administration.
The governor issued this order shortly after swearing in the Chairmen of Caretaker Committees, who will manage the affairs of the LGAs following the expiration of the previous chairmen’s tenure. These caretaker committees are expected to ensure the continued smooth operation of local government functions without interruption.
“As a government that strongly adheres to accountability, I have ordered an audit of the activities of the 23 Local Government Areas over the past three years to ensure funds were properly utilized,” Fubara stated. He highlighted the importance of this audit in identifying any mismanagement or misallocation of resources and ensuring that public funds are used for their intended purposes to benefit the people.
Governor Fubara emphasized that the appointment of the Caretaker Committees is a strategic move to maintain stability and prevent any power vacuum in the local governance structure. “As nature abhors a vacuum, our action is to ensure that we don’t give vent to tenure elongation which is alien to our constitution,” he said. This step is crucial to uphold the rule of law and prevent any attempts to extend the tenure of outgoing officials beyond their constitutionally mandated period.
In his address to the newly appointed caretaker chairmen, Governor Fubara charged them with the responsibility of protecting the interests of their communities. He urged them to promote peace and order within their domains, ensuring that grassroots leadership remains effective and responsive to the needs of the people. The governor’s directives are aimed at fostering good governance and enhancing the delivery of public services at the local level.
This audit and the subsequent actions are part of Governor Fubara’s broader strategy to improve governance in Rivers State. By holding local government officials accountable and ensuring that public resources are managed efficiently, the administration seeks to build a more transparent, effective, and people-oriented government.
