Rivers newly elected 23 council chairmen inaugurated

Barely 24 hours after their election results were announced, the 23 local government chairmen in Rivers State Administrator were on Monday inaugurated at the Government House in Port Harcourt by the sole administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas.

Persecondnews reported that the APC had swept the polls held on Saturday with 20 chairmanship seats while the PDP, the ruling party in the state, secured three seats.

Ibas urged the newly elected to be selfless and focus on grassroots development and embrace a new era of transparent, accountable, and reform-driven leadership.

According to a statement by the Senior Special Adviser on Media, Hector Igbikiowubo, the administrator said public office is a sacred trust, not an avenue for personal gain and urged them to reflect such.

Ibas said: “This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed. It is a burden to be carried. It is not an entitlement, but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service,”

He, however, cautioned that leadership should move beyond politics and focus on delivering measurable services that improve citizens’ lives.

He placed the event in the context of the state’s recent challenges, referencing President Bola Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration on March 18, 2025, due to political disagreements.

He lauded the peaceful and successful conduct of the local government elections on August 30, 2025, calling it a crucial step toward restoring constitutional order.

He told the people of Rivers:“You proved that democracy belongs to the people, that power must flow from the consent of the governed, and that no obstacle can weaken the resolve of a united citizenry.”

He commended the electorate’s discipline and participation and praised the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission for a transparent and credible process.

The administrator also urged incoming chairmen to familiarize themselves with the Nigerian Constitution and other statutes governing the local government system, calling them the “compass of stewardship.”

Ibas also advised them to prioritize peace and security by working with traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders.

“Without peace, there can be no progress,” he affirmed, urging them to strengthen local economies by supporting small businesses, upgrading infrastructure, and investing in education.

Obas thanked the outgoing council administrators for their steadfast service and contributions and wished them success in their future endeavors.