Fubara Orders Audit of Local Government Accounts in Rivers State

Governor Siminalayi Fubara has ordered a comprehensive audit of the accounts of all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) for the past three years. The audit, mandated to be conducted by the state auditor general, aims to ensure transparency and accountability in local governance.

During the swearing-in ceremony of the Caretaker Committee Chairmen for the LGAs, Governor Fubara emphasized that this audit is a precautionary measure to ensure the incoming officials have a clear and accountable starting point. He urged the new caretaker chairmen to prioritize the interests of their communities and prove the government’s confidence in their appointments through responsible leadership.

Governor Fubara highlighted that the current political unrest is a natural part of the democratic process. He stressed that the opposition to tenure extension is a national issue, arguing that permitting it in Rivers State could set a dangerous precedent for the rest of the country.

He also pointed out that the use of caretaker committees is a common practice across many states in Nigeria and reassured that their tenure would be temporary, with preparations for local government elections already underway.

Fubara called for a non-violent approach to resolving disputes and advised the caretaker chairmen to promptly address the salaries and entitlements of the outgoing officials, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and order in the state.